Billowy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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billowy
[ˈbɪloʊi ]
Definition
describing clouds
Billowy refers to something that has the characteristics of billows, or large, fluffy waves or clouds. It is often used to describe things that rise and fall in a soft and curvy manner. The term evokes a sense of lightness and movement, often found in fabrics like curtains or in natural elements like clouds. In literature, 'billowy' can impart an image of softness, gentleness, and fluidity.
Synonyms
fluffy, puffy, undulating, wave-like.
Examples of usage
- The billowy clouds drifted across the sky.
- She wore a billowy dress that swayed gracefully in the breeze.
- The ocean's billowy waves crashed against the shore.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Nature
- Billowy clouds can indicate a change in weather, often signaling an approaching storm.
- In nature, billowy forms can be seen in the shapes of ocean waves, which rise and fall with the wind.
Literature
- Poets often use 'billowy' to describe dreamy, romantic scenes, evoking feelings of calm and serenity.
- Billowy imagery is commonly found in romantic literature, giving a sense of lightness and freedom.
Fashion
- In fashion, billowy fabrics are often used in dresses and blouses to create a relaxed, elegant silhouette.
- Billowy sleeves and skirts reflect a playful, airy style that is popular in many fashion trends.
Art
- Artists might use billowy shapes to convey movement and emotion in their paintings or sculptures.
- In visual art, the portrayal of billowy textiles can create a sense of depth and texture.
Origin of 'billowy'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'billowy' comes from the Old English word 'bylgian', which means 'to swell' or 'to toss about'.
- It became commonly used in English around the 14th century to describe waves and other soft, flowing forms.
The word 'billowy' has its origins in the early 14th century, derived from the Middle English word 'bilewe', which referred to a swelling or surge. This, in turn, comes from the Old English 'bilew', meaning a wave or billow, and is related to the Old Norse 'bila', which means to burst or explode. The term has been in use for centuries to describe the movement of water and air, characterized by a rolling or swelling motion. As language evolved, 'billowy' found its way into descriptions of not just natural elements like clouds and ocean waves, but also in fashion and textiles to capture the essence of softness and elegance. Its poetic connotations make it a favored adjective among writers and poets, who use it to evoke imagery of serenity and grace.