Collecting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐งณ
collecting
[kษหlษktษชล ]
Definitions
hobby
The activity of gathering and acquiring items of a particular type, such as stamps, coins, or antiques.
Synonyms
accumulating, amassing, gathering.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| collecting |
Generally used when bringing items together that belong to a specific set or category, often for a hobby or organized purpose.
|
| gathering |
Often used for bringing people or items together in one place, typically in a social or physical sense, and can imply care and intent.
|
| accumulating |
Commonly used for gradually increasing the amount of something, often over a long period, and can sometimes suggest an inorganic or impersonal accumulation.
|
| amassing |
Typically implies gathering something in large quantities, often money or valuable resources, sometimes suggesting greed or ambition.
|
Examples of usage
- I have been collecting stamps since I was a child.
- She has a huge collection of vintage coins.
- Collecting rare books can be a very rewarding hobby.
data
The action of systematically gathering and storing information or objects.
Synonyms
accumulating, amassing, gathering.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| collecting |
Used when acquiring items systematically, often as a hobby or for a purpose.
|
| gathering |
Refers to bringing things or people together, often for a specific event or purpose, and can be physical items or abstract concepts like information.
|
| accumulating |
Often relates to gathering things over time, with a focus on growth or increase in quantity
|
| amassing |
Usually emphasizes the large scale or impressive quantity of what is being gathered, often related to wealth or resources.
|
Examples of usage
- The company is collecting data on customer preferences.
- She is collecting samples for her research project.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The practice of collecting dates back to ancient civilizations, where people would collect items for trade, religious rituals, or as symbols of wealth.
- In Renaissance Europe, collecting became a sign of social status, leading wealthy individuals to amass art, books, and curiosities from their travels.
Cultural Significance
- In various cultures, collecting can symbolize identity and heritage, like collecting traditional artifacts that represent oneโs community.
- Some cultures celebrate the art of collecting, such as in Japan with traditional ceramics or tea sets, where each piece tells a story.
Psychology
- Psychologists suggest that collecting can fulfill emotional needs, providing a sense of accomplishment and personal identity.
- For some, collecting can serve as a coping mechanism for stress or anxiety, offering comfort in the familiar items they gather.
Modern Trends
- Collecting in the digital age has transformed, with people now amassing virtual items, like NFTs, rare online game skins, or digital art.
- Social media has amplified collecting practices, with platforms dedicated to showcasing collections, creating communities around shared interests.
Pop Culture
- Collecting is widely depicted in movies and shows, often highlighting obsessive characters who amass unusual items, like Funko Pop figures or vintage toys.
- Many hobbies, from stamp and coin collecting to comic book fandoms, have become popular subcultures, uniting enthusiasts in clubs and events.
Origin of 'collecting'
The word 'collecting' comes from the Latin word 'collectus', meaning 'gathered together'. The concept of collecting has been a part of human culture for centuries, with people collecting items for various reasons such as hobby, research, or investment. The hobby of collecting became popular in the 19th century with the rise of the middle class and the availability of mass-produced items. Today, collecting is a widespread activity enjoyed by people of all ages.
See also: collect, collectables, collected, collectible, collectibles, collection, collective, collectively, collectivize, collector, recollect.