Autumn Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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autumn
[ˈɔːtəm ]
Definitions
season
Autumn, also known as fall in North American English, is one of the four temperate seasons. It marks the transition from summer to winter, usually occurring in September (Northern Hemisphere) or March (Southern Hemisphere). During autumn, the days become shorter and the weather becomes cooler, leading to the shedding of leaves from deciduous trees.
Synonyms
autumnal equinox, fall, harvest season.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| autumn |
Commonly used in British English to refer to the season between summer and winter.
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| fall |
Commonly used in American English to refer to the season between summer and winter.
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Examples of usage
- The leaves change color during autumn.
- Pumpkin spice is a popular flavor in autumn beverages.
- Autumn is a time for harvest festivals.
- People enjoy apple picking in the autumn season.
- The temperature drops in autumn.
literature
In literature, autumn is often used as a symbol of change, transition, and the cycle of life. It is a popular motif in poetry, novels, and other forms of writing, representing themes of melancholy, introspection, and transformation.
Synonyms
falling leaves, season of change, time of reflection.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| autumn |
Used to describe the season between summer and winter in a neutral or straightforward manner. It is commonly used in everyday conversation and writing.
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| season of change |
A more poetic and reflective way to refer to autumn, emphasizing transformation and transition. Often used in literature and expressive writing.
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| time of reflection |
Describes autumn in a thoughtful and introspective manner, often used when discussing personal growth or change in literature or conversations about life.
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| falling leaves |
Highlights a specific characteristic of autumn. Used in descriptive writing or poetry to evoke imagery of the season.
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Examples of usage
- The falling leaves symbolize the passage of time in autumn.
- Many poets have written about the beauty of autumn.
- Autumn is a common setting for romantic novels.
- The changing seasons mirror the characters' emotional journeys in the autumn.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Celebrations
- Many cultures celebrate the harvest season with festivals such as Thanksgiving in the United States and the Mid-Autumn Festival in several Asian countries.
- In Japan, 'Momiji-gari' is the tradition of enjoying the beautiful changing colors of leaves, cherished in autumn.
- The famous 'Oktoberfest' in Germany starts in late September and runs into early October, celebrating autumn with beer and traditional foods.
Nature and Environment
- Trees prepare for winter by shedding leaves in an energy-saving method known as abscission.
- Animal behavior changes in autumn, as many mammals gather food in preparation for hibernation.
- The stunning colors of autumn foliage are a result of chlorophyll breakdown, revealing other pigments such as carotenoids and anthocyanins.
Literature and Art
- Autumn is a popular theme in poetry and literature, often symbolizing change, transition, and reflection.
- Famous works like 'To Autumn' by John Keats celebrate the season's beauty and its role in the cycle of life.
- In art, many painters like Claude Monet captured autumn landscapes, showcasing vibrant colors and the shifting light of the season.
Psychological Effects
- The change in daylight during autumn can influence mood, often leading to seasonal affective disorder (SAD) in some individuals.
- Studies suggest that many people find comfort in the cozy feelings associated with autumn, like warm drinks and gatherings.
- The sights, sounds, and smells of autumn can evoke nostalgia, reminding many of childhood memories and family traditions.
Origin of 'autumn'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'autumn' comes from the Latin word 'autumnus', which means 'the coming in of the year'.
- In Middle English, 'autumn' was often referred to as 'fall', which is still used in American English today.
- The word 'harvest', often associated with autumn, reflects the time of gathering crops before winter.
The word 'autumn' originated from the ancient Etruscan root 'autu-', which later evolved into the Latin 'autumnus.' This term gradually made its way into Old French as 'autompne' and eventually entered Middle English as 'autumn' in the 14th century. The concept of autumn has long been associated with harvests, festivals, and the changing colors of leaves, making it a rich and evocative season in various cultures around the world.