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Careened Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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careened

[kษ™หˆrฤ“nd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

motion, tilting

To careen means to tilt or lean to one side while moving, often referring to vehicles that are moving rapidly and out of control. This term is often used in nautical contexts, where a ship is careened to clean or repair the hull, tilting it to one side. Careening can also refer to swerving or rushing uncontrollably, suggesting a lack of balance or control in movement.

Synonyms

lurched, swayed, swerved, tilted.

Examples of usage

  • The car careened around the corner.
  • The ship was careened for repairs.
  • The cyclist careened down the hill.
  • The ball careened off the wall.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In literature, careened can be a metaphor for a character's emotional state, indicating instability or recklessness.
  • Famous novels often use careening imagery to depict characters navigating chaotic situations.

Physics

  • In physics, careening relates to motion dynamics, where an objectโ€™s center of mass affects its balance as it moves.
  • Understanding how objects careen can help in areas like automotive safety and engineering design.

Culture

  • In film and television, scenes where vehicles careen down streets often build tension and excitement, enhancing the action.
  • The concept of careening is frequently depicted in cartoons where characters lose control in humorous ways.

Safety

  • Careening can pose serious safety risks, emphasizing the importance of control in driving and motor sports.
  • Many awareness campaigns focus on the dangers of reckless driving associated with careening actions.

Origin of 'careened'

Main points about word origin

  • Originates from the Middle French word 'cariner', which means to haul vessels into dry dock for repairs.
  • The term developed in nautical contexts, related to the angle at which a ship leans when it moves or turns sharply.

The word 'careen' comes from the late Middle English 'carene,' which was derived from the French 'quรฉrir,' meaning to tilt or slope. The nautical meaning of the term originates from the Latin 'carrina,' referring to a cart or a vehicle. In the 17th century, the term began to be used in a maritime context, where vessels would careen to clean and repair their hulls. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass broader meanings related to uncontrolled motion or swerving, commonly seen in discussions about vehicles or objects moving rapidly and unsteadily.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,375 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.