Cinder: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'cinder' comes from Old French 'cendrier', meaning 'to ash' or 'burn'.
• It can be traced further back to the Latin word 'cinis', meaning 'ashes'.
• Over time, 'cinder' has evolved in different languages, retaining the core meaning related to burning.

Science

• Cinders are often formed when organic materials, like wood, undergo combustion, a chemical reaction with oxygen.
• They retain heat for a long time, which is why they are sometimes used in heating systems to sustain warmth.
• Cinders can also contribute to soil formation, as they break down over time enriching the earth with minerals.

Pop Culture

• In many fairy tales, the character Cinderella is often associated with cinders, symbolizing her humble beginnings.
• The term 'cinder' is used in various films and books as a metaphor for resilience after a tough situation, much like rising from the ashes.
• Cinders are also depicted in films related to fire, as they are remnants that evoke imagery of transformation.

Literature

• Cinders appear in classic poems to represent endings and beginnings, signifying what is left after a destructive fire.
• Modern authors use cinders as a symbol of hope, where the remnants of something burnt can lead to new life or experiences.
• In various stories, cinders are tied to themes of loss and regeneration, often illustrating a journey from despair to recovery.

Environmental Impact

• Cinders from volcanic eruptions can create unique landscapes, influencing ecosystems dramatically.
• In some ecosystems, cinders can act as an essential component for soil rebuilding after wildfires, leading to biodiversity.
• Controlled burns in forestry can leave cinders that help rejuvenate forest lands, promoting new growth.

Positioned at #20,140, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

• ...
• 20137 asceticism
• 20138 peck
• 20139 distraught
• 20140 cinder
• 20141 snaps
• 20142 edicts
• 20143 garnish
• ...