August Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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august

[ษ”หหˆษกสŒst ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

month

The eighth month of the year, between July and September.

Examples of usage

  • It's always hot in August.
  • My birthday is in August.
  • We're planning a vacation for August.
Context #2 | Adjective

impressive

Majestic, inspiring awe or admiration.

Synonyms

dignified, imposing, majestic.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
august

Use 'august' to describe something that is respected and impressive, often with a sense of grandeur and historical importance.

  • The august presence of the ancient ruin left the visitors in awe
majestic

Use 'majestic' to describe something that has grandeur and beauty, often related to nature or architecture, conveying a sense of awe due to its splendor.

  • The majestic mountains stood tall against the clear blue sky, creating a breathtaking view
imposing

Use 'imposing' to describe something that is striking and makes a strong impression, often because of its size, appearance, or manner. It can sometimes have a slightly negative connotation if it implies being overly dominant.

  • The imposing facade of the government building was both awe-inspiring and intimidating
dignified

Use 'dignified' to describe someone or something that exudes quiet seriousness and respectability, often linked to behavior and mannerisms.

  • The dignified manner in which she handled the situation earned everyone's respect

Examples of usage

  • The view from the top of the mountain was truly august.
  • Her august presence commanded respect from everyone in the room.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In ancient Greece, August was a month of festivals and cultural events, celebrating abundance and harvest.
  • Many cultures regard August as a month of transition, preparing for the cooler autumn while still enjoying the warmth of summer.
  • The U.S. celebrates several important dates in August, including National Friendship Day and Womenโ€™s Equality Day, highlighting its cultural importance.

Literature

  • The term often appears in literature to evoke a sense of grandeur or to describe noble characters, enhancing their significance.
  • Famous writers like Shakespeare have used the word to elevate language, imparting a regal quality to their characters and settings.
  • In poetry, the word can convey deep emotion, often linked with majesty and respect, creating a rich imagery of noble themes.

Psychology

  • Words like 'august' can evoke feelings of respect and admiration, influencing how we perceive people or situations.
  • The use of elevated language helps set a tone in communication, affecting social interactions and perceptions in groups.
  • Research suggests that using grand words can enhance persuasiveness in speeches and writing, creating greater impact on audiences.

Science

  • In botany, 'august' can describe the period in late summer when certain plants are at their peak growth.
  • August is known for having some of the hottest temperatures in the Northern Hemisphere, influencing local ecosystems and wildlife behaviors.
  • Due to the seasonal changes in August, many species prepare for reproduction or migration, making this month important in environmental studies.

Origin of 'august'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Latin 'augustus,' meaning 'venerable' or 'majestic,' and was named for the Roman Emperor Augustus.
  • August became the name for the eighth month of the year in honor of Emperor Augustus, reflecting his significance.
  • It was once called 'Sextilis' in Latin, derived from the word 'six,' since it was the sixth month before January and February were added.

The word 'August' originates from the Latin word 'Augustus', meaning 'consecrated' or 'venerable'. It was originally named after Augustus Caesar, the first Roman emperor. The month of August was named in his honor, as it was the month of several of his greatest triumphs. Over time, the word 'August' has evolved to represent qualities of grandeur, dignity, and respect.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,423, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.