Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Collier Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

💍
Add to dictionary

collier

[ˈkɒlɪər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

jewelry

A collier is a necklace or chain worn around the neck, typically made of precious metals such as gold or silver, and often adorned with gemstones or pearls.

Synonyms

chain, necklace.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
collier

Used primarily in reference to a worker in the coal mining industry. It is not related to jewelry.

  • My grandfather was a collier for most of his life, working in the coal mines.
  • The town was filled with collier families who depended on mining for their livelihood.
necklace

A piece of jewelry worn around the neck, often made of various materials such as metal, beads, or gems.

  • She received a beautiful diamond necklace for her birthday.
  • He wore a simple gold necklace with a pendant.
chain

Can refer to a series of interconnected links typically made of metal. Often used in contexts outside of jewelry, such as machinery or security.

  • The bicycle's chain slipped off the gears.
  • He wrapped the chain around the gate to secure it.

Examples of usage

  • She wore a beautiful diamond collier to the gala.
  • The collier she inherited from her grandmother was a family heirloom.
Context #2 | Noun

mining

A collier is a coal miner or a ship for transporting coal.

Synonyms

coal miner, coal ship.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
collier

Refers to a ship that is specially designed to transport coal, often used in maritime contexts or discussions about shipping industries.

  • The collier was loaded with thousands of tons of coal, ready for its journey across the ocean.
  • New regulations for colliers are being discussed to reduce carbon emissions during transport.
coal miner

Describes a person who works in a coal mine, typically used when talking about the mining industry or related labor conditions.

  • Coal miners often face harsh, dangerous conditions underground.
  • The documentary highlighted the daily life of a coal miner and his family.

Examples of usage

  • The colliers worked long hours in the coal mines.
  • The collier ships transported coal across the ocean.
Context #3 | Noun

history

A collier was a person who made or dealt in charcoal.

Synonyms

charcoal dealer, charcoal maker.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
collier

Also refers to a type of ship designed to carry coal. Usage depends on context to distinguish from the coal industry worker.

  • The collier docked at the port to unload its cargo of coal.
  • They saw a large collier anchored off the coast.
charcoal maker

Indicates someone who produces charcoal, typically through the process of burning wood in the absence of oxygen.

  • The charcoal maker explained the traditional methods of producing high-quality charcoal.
  • Many charcoal makers use environmentally friendly techniques these days.
charcoal dealer

Describes a business person who sells charcoal. This term is usually associated with someone involved in commercial transactions of charcoal.

  • The charcoal dealer assured me of the quality of his product.
  • We bought some charcoal from a local charcoal dealer for our barbecue.

Examples of usage

  • The collier was responsible for supplying charcoal to blacksmiths and forges.
  • In medieval times, colliers played a crucial role in the iron industry.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • During the Industrial Revolution, colliers played a critical role in powering industries with coal, which became the main source of fuel.
  • In many regions, especially in the UK, the life of a collier was harsh, with miners facing dangers such as cave-ins and toxic gases.

Labor Movement

  • The struggles of colliers were significant in the labor movement, leading to formation of unions advocating for better working conditions and wages.
  • Historic events, such as the 1984-1985 miners' strike in the UK, highlighted the socio-economic challenges faced by colliers.

Cultural Reflections

  • Colliers have been portrayed in literature and film, often emphasizing the bravery and resilience of these miners in the face of adversity.
  • Songs and folklore often celebrate the life and work of colliers, capturing the spirit of their communities.

Environmental Impact

  • The work of colliers has had a lasting impact on the environment, with coal mining contributing significantly to land degradation and pollution.
  • Debates about the future of coal and moving towards renewable energy sources have put colliers in the spotlight regarding labor transitions.

Origin of 'collier'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Middle English term 'collier,' which originally meant 'charcoal burner' before it referred to coal miners.
  • Its roots can be traced back to the Old French word 'coillier,' meaning 'to collect,' highlighting the collection nature of the job.

The word 'collier' has multiple origins and meanings. It can be traced back to Middle English, where it referred to a person who made or sold charcoal. Over time, the term evolved to also describe a coal miner or a ship used for transporting coal. In the context of jewelry, 'collier' is borrowed from French and represents a decorative necklace or chain worn around the neck. The diverse history of the word reflects its usage in different industries and cultural contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,435, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.