Crane Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฆฉ
crane
[kreษชn ]
Definitions
bird type
A crane is a large, long-legged bird known for its graceful movements and elegant stature. Cranes are often found in wetlands, grasslands, and near water bodies. They are characterized by their long necks, slender bodies, and distinctive calls. Many species are migratory, traveling long distances between breeding and wintering grounds. Cranes are also known for their elaborate courtship dances and are often associated with various cultural symbols.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The crane gracefully soared over the lake.
- We spotted a pair of cranes during our hike.
- The crane's dance was a beautiful sight.
construction equipment
A crane is a type of machinery used for lifting and moving heavy loads in construction and industrial environments. Cranes are typically equipped with a hoist, wire ropes, and sheaves to facilitate lifting. They come in various types such as tower cranes, mobile cranes, and overhead cranes, each designed for specific tasks. The use of cranes has revolutionized construction processes, allowing for the vertical lifting of heavy materials and enabling complex architectural designs.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The construction site was busy with cranes lifting steel beams.
- They used a mobile crane to move the large machinery.
- The tower crane is essential for high-rise buildings.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Nature
- Cranes are known for their elaborate courtship dances, which can involve jumping and leaping high.
- There are about 15 species of cranes globally, and many are considered endangered due to habitat loss.
Culture
- In many cultures, cranes symbolize good luck, longevity, and prosperity.
- The Japanese art of folding origami cranes is a symbol of hope and peace, famously associated with the story of Sadako Sasaki.
Engineering
- Cranes in construction are vital for lifting materials to great heights, enabling the building of skyscrapers and bridges.
- The invention of cranes dates back to ancient Greece, where they used wooden cranes operated by human or animal power.
Art
- Cranes are featured in various artworks, symbolizing grace and elegance in nature.
- Famous paintings often depict cranes as a sign of happiness and abundance.
Origin of 'crane'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'crane' comes from the Old English word 'cran', which also referred to the bird.
- The machine's name derives from the bird due to its ability to lift items high, similar to how a crane bird stretches its neck.
The word 'crane' has Old English origins, tracing back to 'cran', which is related to similar terms in other Germanic languages, such as Old High German 'krano' and Dutch 'kraan'. These terms were used to describe the bird, recognized for its distinctive physical features. Over time, the word was also adapted to describe the lifting device used in constructions, likely due to the resemblance to the bird's long neck and legs. The evolution of the term highlights the interplay between the natural world and technological advancements. The construction crane as we know it today emerged in the late Middle Ages, influenced by medieval engineering. The versatility of cranes has led them to become an integral part of modern industrial and construction environments.