Becalm Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
becalm
[bษชหkษหlm ]
Definition
nautical term
To becalm a ship means to render it motionless or unable to sail, typically due to a lack of wind. This often occurs when a vessel is caught in an area known as a calm or when the wind dies down unexpectedly. In a broader sense, to becalm can also refer to soothing or pacifying someone or something. It is an action taken to restore peace and tranquility amidst chaos or turmoil.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The crew was forced to becalm the ship in the still waters.
- To becalm the arguing children, she read them a story.
- We must becalm the situation before any decisions are made.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Nautical Significance
- In sailing, a becalmed boat can be a disadvantage, requiring patience as sailors wait for wind.
- Becalmed ships have historically led to situations where crew survival depended on resourcefulness, such as rationing water.
Literature
- In literature, a becalmed scene often symbolizes stillness or a pause in action, inviting introspection.
- Classic novels set at sea frequently incorporate the concept of being becalmed to reflect the charactersโ emotional states.
Environmental Context
- Calm weather can influence marine life behaviors, as many fish species become less active and harder to catch.
- Climate change can affect wind patterns, potentially leading to more frequent instances of becalmed conditions at sea.
Metaphor in Life
- The term has metaphorical uses, representing moments in life where one might feel stuck or unable to move forward.
- People often describe feelings of being mentally or emotionally becalmed when facing indecision or stressful situations.
Origin of 'becalm'
Main points about word origin
- The term originated in the early 17th century, derived from the prefix 'be-' indicating a change of state and 'calm' which means peaceful.
- It combines elements of Old English and nautical terminology, reflecting the importance of calmness in sailing.
The term 'becalm' originated in the late 16th century, derived from the prefix 'be-', which indicates a state or condition, combined with the word 'calm'. The use of 'calm' has Old English roots, stemming from the word 'ceald', which means 'to become quiet or still'. Given its nautical context, 'becalm' historically referred to the condition of a ship that was unable to move due to the absence of wind, a significant concern for sailors navigating the seas. As navigation methods evolved, the term also began to be used in a broader psychological or emotional context, signifying the act of calming or soothing individuals in distressing situations.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #42,585, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.