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Callused Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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callused

[หˆkรฆl.jสŠst ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

physical condition

Callused refers to an area of skin that has become toughened and thickened due to repeated friction, pressure, or irritation. This condition typically develops on the hands or feet, but can occur on any part of the body that experiences excessive rubbing. Calluses serve a protective function by shielding the underlying skin from injury. While they are usually harmless and can provide some comfort during daily activities, excessive callusing may indicate an underlying issue or may cause discomfort.

Synonyms

hardened, thickened, toughened.

Examples of usage

  • He developed callused hands from years of labor.
  • Her callused soles made walking barefoot easier.
  • The gardener had callused fingers from using tools.
  • After months of practice, my fingertips became callused from playing the guitar.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Health and Biology

  • Calluses commonly form on the hands and feet in response to friction, protecting these areas from injuries.
  • While callused skin serves a protective purpose, excessive callusing can lead to discomfort and potential skin issues.
  • People might actively develop calluses through specific activities, like athletes who condition their hands for better grip.

Cultural References

  • In various cultures, having callused hands may symbolize hard work and dedication, often admired in craft and labor communities.
  • Songs and poems frequently mention callused hands as a metaphor for hardship and perseverance in life.

Psychology

  • Some studies suggest that individuals with physical calluses may also develop emotional 'calluses' as a way to cope with stress or pain.
  • The concept of emotional calluses can relate to resilience, suggesting how experiences toughen us over time.

Sports and Fitness

  • Athletes like rock climbers or weightlifters often require callused skin for better performance and to prevent painful blisters.
  • There are specific training methods designed to properly develop and maintain calluses for performance enhancement in sports.

Origin of 'callused'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Latin 'callosus,' meaning thick or hard, which refers to the texture of the skin.
  • In earlier English, 'callus' was used to describe a hard skin buildup, showcasing how the term has evolved over time.

The word 'callused' originates from the Latin word 'calลญs', meaning 'hard skin' or 'callus'. It entered the English language in the late Middle Ages as a description for hardened areas of the skin that develop as protective barriers. Historically, calluses have been associated with manual labor, where hands and feet often endure significant wear and tear, leading to this phenomenon. Over time, the term has expanded to include not just the physical aspect of skin but also metaphorically indicating emotional or psychological toughness, as in a 'callused heart'. The evolution of the word reflects both its physical and metaphorical applications in the English language.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,520 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.