Chiseling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”จ
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chiseling

[หˆtสƒษชzษ™lษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

sculpture

To carve or shape with a chisel. It involves using a sharp tool to create a design or sculpture out of a material such as wood, stone, or metal.

Synonyms

carve, engrave, sculpt.

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Word Description / Examples
chiseling

Used when someone is shaping or cutting materials, generally stone or wood, with a chisel. It's often related to detailed work.

  • The artist spent hours chiseling the details of the statue.
  • He was busy chiseling letters into the stone tablet.
carve

Used when creating something by cutting away from a solid material like wood or stone. It's also common in the context of cooking, such as carving meat.

  • They decided to carve their initials into the tree.
  • The chef began to carve the turkey for dinner.
sculpt

Used when shaping a three-dimensional artwork from materials like clay, stone, or metal. It emphasizes the artistic creation of forms.

  • He loves to sculpt figures out of clay.
  • The artist spent months sculpting the life-sized statue.
engrave

Used when cutting or etching designs or letters into a hard surface, usually for decorative or ownership marking purposes. It often involves finer, more intricate work.

  • She had her name engraved on the bracelet.
  • The trophy was engraved with the winner's name.

Examples of usage

  • The artist was chiseling away at the marble to create a beautiful statue.
  • She carefully chiseled the intricate details into the woodwork.
Context #2 | Verb

informal

To obtain or achieve something through persistent and determined effort. It often refers to achieving a desired result through hard work and perseverance.

Synonyms

achieve, attain, obtain.

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Word Description / Examples
chiseling

This word has a negative connotation; itโ€™s often used to describe deceitfully obtaining money or advantages, or it can refer to the physical act of carving with a chisel.

  • He was caught chiseling money from the company
  • The sculptor spent hours chiseling the marble to create a beautiful statue
achieve

This is best used when talking about reaching a goal or completing a task, especially something that required effort and dedication.

  • She worked hard to achieve her dream of becoming a doctor
  • After months of training, he finally achieved his goal of running a marathon
obtain

This is generally used when talking about getting or acquiring something, usually an object or possession.

  • You need to obtain permission before you can access the restricted area
  • She obtained a rare book for her collection
attain

Often used in formal situations to describe reaching a certain level, status, or condition after effort or hard work.

  • He attained the rank of general after many years of service
  • She has attained a level of mastery in playing the piano

Examples of usage

  • He was chiseling his way to the top of the company through sheer hard work.
  • She chiseled out a successful career in the competitive industry.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Art & Sculpture

  • Chiseling is a core technique in sculpture, allowing artists to create lifelike figures from marble and stone.
  • Michelangelo famously used chiseling to transform massive stone blocks into renowned sculptures, like David.
  • Different types of chisels are used for various effects in sculpture, including point, flat, and skew chisels.

History

  • Ancient Egyptians used chiseling techniques to craft statues and hieroglyphs in stone, making their culture known for monumental architecture.
  • The tradition of chiseling dates back to the Stone Age when early humans used rudimentary tools to create primitive art and shelters.
  • In the Renaissance, advanced chiseling methods led to the revival of classical art, inspiring artists across Europe.

Tools & Technology

  • Modern chisels are made from specialized steel, improving durability and precision for craftsmen and DIY enthusiasts.
  • Chiseling today can involve powered tools, making the process faster and more efficient while maintaining traditional techniques.
  • Chiseling isn't just for stone or wood; it can also be applied to metals and glass in various crafts.

Psychology

  • The concept of chiseling can symbolize breaking down larger problems into manageable parts, akin to a sculptor refining a rough shape.
  • Chiseling away at a challenge can foster a growth mindset, encouraging persistence and improvement over time.
  • In therapeutic contexts, the 'chiseling' metaphor is used to denote personal growth, as individuals shape and refine their identities.

Origin of 'chiseling'

Main points about word origin

  • The word stems from the Old French word 'cisel,' meaning 'to cut or engrave,' showing its carving roots.
  • Chiseling combines the process of applying force to a hard surface, often to create art or tools.
  • The term 'chisel' can also refer to the action of deceitfully tricking someone, showcasing versatility in usage.

The word 'chiseling' originated from the Middle French word 'cisel', which means 'chisel'. The verb form of 'chisel' came into use in the 17th century, deriving from the noun. The act of chiseling has been a fundamental technique in sculpture and woodworking for centuries, allowing artisans to carve intricate designs and shapes into various materials.


See also: chisel.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,651 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.