Amidst Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ณ
amidst
[ษหmษชdst ]
Definitions
in the middle of
Surrounded by; in the middle of; in the midst of.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| amidst |
Used to describe something happening in the middle of or surrounded by other things. It gives a poetic or formal tone.
|
| amongst |
Primarily used in British English to mean 'in the middle of' or 'surrounded by'. It has a somewhat old-fashioned tone in American English.
|
| amid |
Can be used interchangeably with 'amidst' but is slightly more common and modern in regular use. It's less formal.
|
| within |
Describes something inside a particular area or time. It is often used to indicate boundaries or limits.
|
Examples of usage
- He was walking amidst the crowd.
- The house stood amidst a beautiful garden.
- The children played happily amidst the flowers.
surrounded by
In the middle of a group of people or things.
Synonyms
among, in the middle of, surrounded by.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| amidst |
Used to describe a situation where someone or something is in the middle of or surrounded by things or circumstances. It often implies a sense of being engulfed or enclosed.
|
| surrounded by |
Describes a situation where someone or something is enclosed on all sides by other things or people. It often conveys a more literal sense of being encircled.
|
| in the middle of |
Used when something or someone is located at the central point of a place, activity, or event. It can indicate a physical or metaphorical center.
|
| among |
Appropriate when talking about something or someone being part of a group or in the company of others. It suggests one is included within a group or collective.
|
Examples of usage
- She stood quietly amidst the chaos.
- The old castle lies amidst the mountains.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- This term has been utilized in classic poetry to evoke imagery of nature and human feelings, enhancing the emotional landscape.
- Many authors, such as William Shakespeare, employed 'amidst' to create a sense of setting and atmosphere in their works.
- In modern literature, 'amidst' captures a sense of contrast, often placing characters in difficult situations within a broader context.
Pop Culture
- The term 'amidst' often appears in popular songs and films to convey depth and emotional complexity, connecting characters to their environments.
- Popular music lyrics frequently use 'amidst' to express struggles, where characters find themselves 'amidst' turmoil or love.
- This word can create an impactful image in storytelling, helping to portray characters as deeply rooted in their surroundings.
Psychology
- Being 'amidst' can invoke feelings of security or anxiety, depending on the context and one's perception of being surrounded.
- The sense of belonging 'amidst' a group often influences mental well-being, highlighting the importance of social connections.
- In moments of stress, finding oneself amidst a calm environment can help in relaxation and anxiety reduction.
Origin of 'amidst'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'amidst' originates from the Old English term 'on middan,' meaning 'in the middle.'
- It has roots in both Middle English and Old Norse, suggesting a long history of meaning 'among' or 'between.'
- The use of 'amidst' emphasizes the act of being surrounded or enclosed, giving it a poetic feeling in language.
The word 'amidst' originated from the Middle English words 'amiddes' or 'amidde' which meant 'in the middle of'. It has been in use since the 14th century, evolving from 'mid' (middle) and 'amid' (in the middle of). Over the years, 'amidst' has been commonly used in literature and formal writing to denote being surrounded by or in the middle of something.
See also: amid.