Beady: meaning, definitions and examples

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beady

 

[ˈbiːdi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

describing eyes

The term 'beady' typically refers to small, round, shiny objects, particularly when describing eyes. Beady eyes are often characterized by their small size, brightness, and a notable lack of emotion or warmth. It may suggest a piercing or unsettling gaze that can imply suspicion or shrewdness. This adjective is often used in literature and conversation to describe individuals whose eyes resemble beads, thereby creating a particular impression about their character.

Synonyms

gleaming, glittering, shiny.

Examples of usage

  • She gave him a beady stare that made him uncomfortable.
  • The detective's beady eyes missed nothing at the crime scene.
  • His beady little eyes watched me from the shadows.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'beady' originates from the word 'bead,' which refers to small, round objects often used in jewelry or decoration.
  • Originally, it was used to describe bright or shiny items, and over time, it came to mostly refer to eyes.
  • The transition from describing objects to eyes highlights how eyes can convey alertness and intensity.

Cultural References

  • In literature and films, characters with beady eyes often portray cunning or scheming personalities.
  • The term often appears in descriptions of animals, where 'beady eyes' add to their mysterious or menacing aura.
  • In art, beady-eyed creatures can be used to evoke a sense of unease or to emphasize predatory features.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that people interpret 'beady eyes' as an indicator of high alertness or suspicion in others.
  • Small, shiny eyes may trigger a defensive response in some animals, as they can denote a potential predator.
  • The perception of beady eyes often influences social interactions; people may avoid those who possess them.

Fashion

  • In the world of fashion, the concept of 'beady-eyed' style can refer to a bold or striking makeup look that draws attention to the eyes.
  • Certain eyewear styles could be described as 'beady' when they emphasize the smallness and reflectiveness of the lens.
  • The 1980s saw trends where eye makeup was emphasized to create a look reminiscent of small, striking eyes.

Children's Literature

  • Many children's stories feature animals with beady eyes, often depicting a wise owl or a sneaky rat, influencing their character traits.
  • Illustrators often exaggerate beady eyes in characters to convey emotions like surprise or mischief.
  • Books aimed at young readers use beady-eyed characters to teach lessons about wisdom or caution in choices.

Translations

Translations of the word "beady" in other languages:

🇵🇹 de olhos esbugalhados

🇮🇳 बिंदु-पात

🇩🇪 perlenartig

🇮🇩 berbintik

🇺🇦 блискучий

🇵🇱 perłowy

🇯🇵 ビーズのような

🇫🇷 perlé

🇪🇸 de perlas

🇹🇷 inci gibi

🇰🇷 구슬 같은

🇸🇦 كرات

🇨🇿 perlový

🇸🇰 perlovo

🇨🇳 珠状的

🇸🇮 biserast

🇮🇸 perlulíkur

🇰🇿 маржанды

🇬🇪 მარგალიტისებრი

🇦🇿 dizaynlı

🇲🇽 de perlas

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,657 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.