Chiselling: meaning, definitions and examples

Historical Origins

• The word 'chisel' comes from the Latin word 'cisellus', meaning 'to cut'. This shows its long history in shaping materials.
• Chiselling techniques date back to ancient civilizations, including Egyptians who expertly carved intricate designs in stone.
• In ancient Rome, chiselling played a vital role in creating iconic sculptures that still inspire artists today.

Art and Craft

• In Renaissance art, chiselling was essential for artists like Michelangelo, who carved famous statues like David from marble.
• Wood chiselling is a cornerstone of fine woodworking and can create detailed furniture and decorations.
• Different kinds of chisels exist, each designed for specific tasks, including paring, mortising, and carving.

Technology

• Advancements in materials and techniques have led to specialized chisels, allowing for both finer detail and greater precision in modern crafts.
• Today, chiselling is also done using computer-controlled machines for mass production, blending traditional skill with technology.
• Motion sensors and robotics in some industries have revolutionized how chiselling is approached, combining old techniques with new technology.

Psychology

• Chiselling something away can symbolize letting go of negative experiences in life, akin to shaping a brighter future.
• The focus and patience required for chiselling can enhance mindfulness, helping practitioners find calm and focus.
• Artists often describe chiselling as a way to uncover the hidden beauty within a material, reflecting personal growth and discovery.

Literature

• Chiselling often serves as a metaphor in literature, representing the struggle to carve out one's identity in a complex world.
• Writers use chiselling as an analogy for editing, emphasizing the importance of refining one's work to reveal the best ideas.
• In many poems, chiselling imagery evokes the idea of laboring over creations, emphasizing dedication and artistry.

Ranking #37,046, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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• 37043 effluvium
• 37044 marcher
• 37045 reoccurring
• 37046 chiselling
• 37047 cloverleaf
• 37048 parlayed
• 37049 instructively
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