Clewed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Add to dictionary

clewed

[kluːd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

past tense

Clewed is a past tense of clew, which historically means to guide or direct. In nautical terms, it signifies the act of securing or pulling a sail. The word emphasizes the notion of being led or informed on a particular path.

Synonyms

guided, pulled, secured.

Examples of usage

  • He clewed the sails tightly before the storm.
  • They clewed together their plans.
  • The captain clewed the ropes meticulously.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In literature, characters often follow clues that lead to plot twists or resolutions, engaging readers and enhancing the narrative.
  • Famous detective stories, such as those by Arthur Conan Doyle, showcase the process of clewing as detectives piece together evidence.
  • In folklore, threads or clues often symbolize fate or destiny, as characters are led to their inevitable outcomes.

Psychology

  • Clewing is essential in cognitive processes, where individuals piece together information to make decisions.
  • The brain uses cues and context, much like following a string, to navigate complex situations and solve problems.
  • Understanding how to clew can improve critical thinking and analytical skills, making it a valuable tool in education.

Art

  • Artists often use threads or strings in installations to symbolize connectivity or the complexity of understanding.
  • In storytelling through visual art, clewing can be represented by visual clues that guide the viewer through an open interpretation.
  • Some modern artworks require audiences to follow hints to fully grasp the meaning, much like a mystery.

Technology

  • In computer programming, developers often put down 'clues' through comments in code to help others understand and navigate the logic.
  • Clewing is metaphorically similar to how algorithms lead users through platforms and digital spaces, assisting in discovery.
  • The concept is also explored in user interface design, where hints help guide users to accomplish goals smoothly.

Origin of 'clewed'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'clewed' comes from an old English root meaning 'to tie with a thread.'
  • Originally related to the word 'clue,' which refers to something that helps solve a puzzle or mystery.
  • The concept involves a thread leading out of a labyrinth, guiding one to safety.

The term 'clew' originates from Old English 'cleow' meaning 'a ball of thread or yarn', which relates to the modern sense of guiding or leading. The metaphorical use likely stems from the legend of Theseus, who used a ball of thread to navigate the Minotaur’s labyrinth. Over time, 'clew' evolved in maritime language, referring to the corner or lower corner of a sail, denoting both a physical object and a guiding concept. Today, 'clewed' reflects this historical journey, encapsulating both its nautical implications and its broader meanings associated with direction and understanding.