Awed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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awed
[ɔːd ]
Definitions
feeling
filled with wonder, amazement, or fear
Synonyms
amazed, astonished, impressed.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| awed |
This word is used when someone is overwhelmed by a sense of wonder or admiration, often mixed with a bit of fear or respect.
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| amazed |
This is used when someone is extremely surprised or filled with wonder, typically due to something unexpected or extraordinary.
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| astonished |
This word is used to describe a state of shock or great surprise, often stronger than 'amazed'.
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| impressed |
This is used when someone feels admiration or respect towards something because it is special, very good, or better than expected.
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Examples of usage
- I was awed by the beauty of the sunset.
- She stood in awed silence as the magician performed his tricks.
respect
inspired by a feeling of respect or reverence
Synonyms
respectful, reverent, venerating.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| awed |
This word is used when someone feels a mixed sense of wonder and fear, usually in response to something majestic, powerful, or extremely impressive.
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| respectful |
This word is appropriate for situations where someone shows polite behavior towards a person, tradition, or rule. It suggests a conscious attitude of deference or regard.
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| reverent |
This word is best used when someone shows deep respect, often coupled with admiration or devotion, typically towards something sacred or profound.
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| venerating |
This word is used when someone shows a high degree of respect and admiration, generally towards someone of great age, wisdom, or significance. It can imply almost an idol-like admiration.
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Examples of usage
- The students were awed by the wisdom of their teacher.
- He looked at the towering mountains with awed admiration.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Experiencing awe can lead to increased feelings of connectedness with others and the world, promoting prosocial behavior.
- Feeling awed has been linked to better emotional well-being, as it can create a sense of perspective and reduce everyday worries.
- Scientists believe that awe can trigger the brain's reward system, producing feelings of happiness.
Art and Literature
- Many poets and writers use moments of awe to express a character's transformation or deeper understanding of life.
- In visual arts, landscape paintings often seek to evoke feelings of awe, capturing the overwhelming beauty of nature.
- Literature often conveys awe through descriptions that highlight grandeur, such as massive mountains or stunning night skies.
Cultural Significance
- In various cultures, awe-inspiring events like eclipses or natural wonders are often seen as sacred or divine.
- Ceremonies and rituals in many societies invoke awe to strengthen community bonds and mark important life events.
- Religious experiences are frequently described in terms of immense awe, indicating a connection to the divine.
Pop Culture
- 'Awe-inspiring' is frequently used in movies and marketing to describe things that amaze the audience, like special effects or stunning visuals.
- Songs and performances often aim to evoke awe through powerful lyrics and emotive delivery, captivating listeners.
- Various documentaries and nature films focus on awe as a theme, showcasing the beauty and mystery of the natural world.
Origin of 'awed'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'awed' comes from the Old English 'ā' meaning fear, which evolved to express a sense of wonder or reverence.
- Originally, 'awe' described a feeling that mixed fear and admiration, reflecting both respect and astonishment.
- The usage of 'awe' has shifted over time to focus more on the positive emotions associated with beauty or grandeur.
The word 'awed' originated from the Old English word 'ege', meaning 'terror, dread, awe'. Over time, the meaning shifted to include feelings of wonder and respect. The modern usage of 'awed' reflects a sense of admiration and reverence towards something impressive or powerful.