Begrime Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐๏ธ
begrime
[bษชหษกraษชm ]
Definition
to make dirty
To begrime means to make something dirty or to cover it with grime. This often involves the addition of soot, dirt, or other pollutants that can cling to surfaces and create an unsanitary condition. It is typically used in contexts where something has been soiled through exposure to elements or neglect. The term suggests a significant level of dirtiness that may require considerable effort to clean.
Synonyms
dirty, filth, grime, smudge, soil.
Examples of usage
- The storm begrimed the windows of the house.
- His work clothes were begrimed after a day in the factory.
- The old walls were begrimed with years of neglect.
- The engines were begrimed with oil and dirt.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- In poetry, 'begrime' can symbolize loss of innocence, where purity is tainted by experiences.
- Classic authors, such as Charles Dickens, have used the term to depict the harsh realities of urban life, contrasting cleanliness with dirt.
- In modern literature, characters may 'begrime' themselves metaphorically by compromising their values.
Psychology
- The idea of 'begriming' can reflect one's perception of moral decay or failing to maintain personal standards.
- Psychologically, individuals may associate feeling 'begrimed' with guilt from actions that don't align with their self-image.
- It serves as a metaphor for how people may feel when they stray from their values or responsibilities.
Cultural References
- In visual arts, works that depict dirt or grime may use 'begrime' creatively to evoke emotions like nostalgia or sadness.
- Street art often embraces the concept of grime as a form of expression, showcasing the beauty found in neglected spaces.
- In film, characters may 'begrime' themselves in a journey of self-discovery, often after confronting harsh truths.
Origin of 'begrime'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'begrime' stems from the prefix 'be-' which means 'to cause to be', combined with 'grime', an old term for dirt or soot.
- It has been in use since the early 17th century, often used in literature to describe the act of soiling something.
- The word suggests a transformation, where something once clean becomes visually unpleasant.
The word 'begrime' originated in the English language in the early 19th century. It is derived from the prefix 'be-' which has a similar function to the verb-forming suffix and often implies 'to make' or 'to cause to be', combined with 'grime', which refers to dirt or filth. The earliest recorded use of 'begrime' appears in literature where it was used to describe the action of soiling an object or a place with dirt. The evolution of the term reflects a growing awareness of cleanliness and hygiene during the industrial revolution, as urban environments became increasingly polluted. The word has since maintained its relevance, often used in both literal and metaphorical contexts to describe a state of being tarnished or corrupted.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #43,124, 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.