Aquiline: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'aquiline' comes from the Latin 'aquilinus', meaning 'like an eagle'.
• Eagles are known for their distinctive, curved beaks, which is why this term emerged to describe certain nose shapes.
• The earliest recorded use of 'aquiline' in English dates back to the late 16th century.

Cultural Perceptions

• In many cultures, a prominent aquiline nose is often associated with nobility and strength.
• Some ancient sculptures and artworks idealized aquiline features, linking them to beauty and heroism.
• Conversely, in popular culture, characters with a strong aquiline nose are sometimes portrayed as cunning or villainous.

Literature

• In classic literature, authors often described characters using physical features like aquiline noses to convey personality traits quickly.
• Aquiline features appear frequently in character depictions in novels, indicating charm or wisdom.
• Famous literary figures, such as Shakespeare's characters, utilized physical descriptions to enhance character development.

Psychology

• Studies suggest that people often make quick character judgments based on physical features, including the shape of the nose.
• An aquiline nose can subconsciously signal authority and assertiveness in social interactions.
• Research indicates that facial traits, like an aquiline nose, can influence attraction and perception of attractiveness.

Fashion and Beauty

• In contemporary beauty standards, an aquiline nose is often regarded as an attractive feature in various models and celebrities.
• Nose shaping or contouring techniques in makeup can enhance aquiline characteristics, highlighting their elegance.
• Historical trends in beauty often celebrated aquiline features, affecting how beauty was perceived in different eras.

At rank #29,516, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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