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Attenuated Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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attenuated

[əˈtɛnjueɪtɪd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

in context of reduction

Attenuated refers to something that has been weakened, reduced in force, or made less intense. This term is frequently used in medical and scientific fields, particularly in relation to pathogens, where it denotes a strain that is less virulent than its wild-type counterpart. The concept of attenuation can also apply to sound, light, or other forms of energy, where it describes a decrease in amplitude or strength. In essence, an attenuated entity retains its identity but is diminished in potency.

Synonyms

diluted, lessened, reduced, weakened.

Examples of usage

  • The scientist used an attenuated strain of the virus for the vaccine.
  • Attenuated signals often lose clarity over long distances.
  • The researchers studied the effects of the attenuated drug on patients.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In biology, attenuated refers to microbes that have been weakened for use in vaccines.
  • An example is the Sabin oral polio vaccine, which contains live but attenuated poliovirus strains.
  • The attenuated form helps the immune system recognize and fight off stronger versions of the virus.

Music

  • In audio engineering, attenuated signals are reduced in volume, allowing for clearer sound mixing.
  • Musical dynamics use this concept to instruct performers to play more softly, creating emotional effects.
  • Attenuation can help control sound resonance in various settings, enhancing the listening experience.

Psychology

  • In cognitive psychology, the concept of sensory attenuation helps explain how we focus on certain stimuli while ignoring others.
  • The 'attenuation theory' posits that unattended information is processed but weakened, impacting attention and perception.
  • Understanding this phenomenon aids in exploring how distractions can affect learning and memory.

Literature

  • Authors often use the idea of attenuation in character development, where a character's strength diminishes over time.
  • The theme of 'loss' or 'diminishment' is prevalent in poetry, highlighting human vulnerability and fragility.
  • Writers may describe an 'attenuated' landscape to evoke feelings of emptiness or decline in a narrative.

Origin of 'attenuated'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'attenuare', meaning 'to make thin or weak'.
  • The prefix 'ad-' means 'to' and 'tenuare' is related to 'tenuis', which means 'thin'.
  • It has been in use in English since the early 17th century.

The word 'attenuated' comes from the Latin verb 'attenuare', meaning 'to make thin'. This is derived from the prefix 'ad-' meaning 'to' or 'toward' and 'tenuare', which comes from 'tenuis' meaning 'thin'. The term entered English in the late 16th century, gradually gaining prominence in both scientific and colloquial usage. Initially, it was applied more broadly to physical properties like sound and light but has become particularly associated with biology and medicine. Over the years, attenuated has evolved to describe not just physical thinning but also a reduction of potency, virulence, or intensity in various contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,092, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.