Atilt Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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atilt
[əˈtɪlt ]
Definition
position or angle
The term 'atilt' refers to a position or orientation that is inclined or tilted from the vertical or horizontal position. It is often used to describe objects, structures, or situations that are not standing straight but are instead leaning or slanted. For example, a painting that is hanging askew on the wall can be described as being atilt. While less commonly used in everyday conversation, it can add nuance to descriptions of physical placements.
Synonyms
askew, inclined, slanted, tilted.
Examples of usage
- The picture on the wall was atilt.
- He stood atilt to get a better view.
- The flag was atilt in the wind.
- Her hat was atilt after the breeze.
- The tower appeared atilt after the earthquake.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- The word is often used in poetry to create imagery of imbalance or disorder.
- Authors like Shakespeare and modern poets utilize 'atilt' to convey emotional states, paralleling physical tilting.
- In different works, characters are described as 'atilt' to symbolize their inner turmoil or conflict.
Art and Design
- Artists sometimes use atilt angles to create dynamic compositions that draw the viewer's eye.
- In architecture, tilted structures can evoke feelings of instability or modernity.
- The concept of 'atilt' can be seen in avant-garde art, where traditional perspectives are intentionally set askew.
Physics
- The concept of tilt is crucial in physics, especially in studies of balance and equilibrium.
- At a tilting angle, objects can exhibit different dynamics, influencing how they move or fall.
- The term is relevant in discussions about gravity, where tilted surfaces impact motion patterns.
Origin of 'atilt'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'atilt' comes from the Old English 'tiltan,' meaning to lean or tilt.
- Its first known use dates back to the 15th century, indicating a long history in the English language.
- The prefix 'a-' in 'atilt' suggests a state or condition, indicating something that is in a tilted position.
The word 'atilt' originates from Middle English and is derived from the prefix 'a-' which means 'in a state of' or 'on' combined with 'tilt', which comes from the Old English word 'tyltan', meaning 'to lean' or 'to incline'. Historically, the concept of tilting has been associated with physical posture, especially in context with objects that are not placed upright. The evolution of its usage has seen 'atilt' being used metaphorically as well, to describe things that are metaphorically slanted or biased. Over time, the word has remained relatively obscure and is primarily used in literary or descriptive contexts, capturing a state of imbalance or non-verticality.