Athwart: meaning, definitions and examples
⛵
athwart
[ əˈθwɔrt ]
position
Athwart is a term used to describe a position or direction that crosses something at an angle. It implies being situated or extending across something, rather than alongside it. This word can also be used metaphorically to indicate opposition or disagreement with something. Its usage is often found in literary contexts, where it conveys a sense of conflict or contrast.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The boat lay athwart the river.
- She stood athwart the walkway, blocking his path.
- The controversy spread athwart the nation.
Translations
Translations of the word "athwart" in other languages:
🇵🇹 através
🇮🇳 पार
🇩🇪 quer
🇮🇩 melintang
🇺🇦 поперек
🇵🇱 przez
🇯🇵 横切って
🇫🇷 à travers
🇪🇸 atravesado
🇹🇷 çapraz
🇰🇷 가로막아
🇸🇦 عبر
🇨🇿 napříč
🇸🇰 naprieč
🇨🇳 横穿
🇸🇮 preko
🇮🇸 þvert
🇰🇿 көлденең
🇬🇪 გადაკვეთა
🇦🇿 qarşıdan
🇲🇽 a través
Etymology
The word 'athwart' has its origins in Old English, specifically from the combination of 'a-' (meaning 'on' or 'in') and 'thwart', which comes from Old Norse 'þverr', meaning 'across' or 'transverse'. The term gained popularity in Middle English, where it was used to describe something that was situated or extending across a certain area or direction. Over time, 'athwart' evolved to encompass not only literal positions but also metaphorical meanings, indicating opposition or contradiction. Its usage peaked in literary and nautical contexts, making it a favorite among poets and writers who sought to convey vivid imagery of conflict or divergence. Despite its somewhat arcane quality today, 'athwart' remains in use, particularly in formal or poetic language, reflecting its rich historical roots.