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Cinder Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cinder

[ˈsɪn.dər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

burnt material

Cinder refers to the partially burnt remains of material, usually wood or coal, that has been used as fuel. It is often characterized by a porous and brittle texture, and it can continue to smolder long after the main fire has gone out.

Synonyms

ash, residue, scoria.

Examples of usage

  • After the fire, only cinders were left in the fireplace.
  • The cinders from the coal furnace needed to be cleaned out regularly.
  • She sifted through the cinders to find any unburnt pieces of wood.
  • The campfire had turned to cinders by the morning.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'cinder'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'cinder' comes from the Old English word 'cinder', which means 'ash' or 'burnt material'. Its origins can be traced back to Proto-West Germanic *kindra, which means 'burnt material'. The term has been used since before the 12th century to describe remnants left after a fire. Over time, the meaning has remained relatively constant, referring to the small particles that remain after a larger piece of wood or coal has been consumed by flames. The connection between cinders and fire has also led to its usage in various idiomatic expressions and metaphorical contexts, often implying the remnants of something that has been destroyed or transformed.

Word Frequency Rank

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.