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Cranny Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cranny

[ˈkræni ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in a wall

A small, narrow opening or crevice, especially in a rock or wall.

Synonyms

crack, crevice, fissure.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cranny

Use to describe a small, narrow space or opening in a wall or rock, typically less significant than a crevice or crack.

  • The mouse disappeared into a cranny in the wall
  • There are many crannies in the old house
crevice

Use to indicate a narrow opening resulting from a split or crack, often in rocks or other large surfaces, usually deeper and more substantial than a cranny.

  • He slipped the letter into a crevice in the rock
  • Small plants were growing in the crevices of the cliff
fissure

Use when talking about a long, narrow opening or line of breakage, especially one made by cracking in the earth or rock, often used in a geological context.

  • A deep fissure formed in the glacier
  • They explored the fissures in the volcanic terrain
crack

Use when referring to a visible, often long and narrow line or break, especially in surfaces like walls, roads, or glass.

  • There is a crack in the kitchen wall
  • She noticed a crack in her phone screen

Examples of usage

  • Light was filtering through a cranny in the wall.
  • I found a spider hiding in a cranny in the old house.
Context #2 | Noun

knowledge

A small, insignificant detail or piece of information.

Synonyms

aspect, detail, element.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cranny

The repetition appears to be an error. Refer to the first entry for context and examples.
detail

The word 'detail' is utilized when talking about a specific part of a whole, often in a thorough or meticulous manner. It is used to emphasize the precision or meticulousness of an observation or description.

  • Pay attention to every detail in the instructions
  • The artist is famous for the detail in his paintings
aspect

The term 'aspect' refers to a particular feature or part of something, especially when considering different perspectives or elements. It is often used to discuss broader concepts or to analyze situations.

  • One crucial aspect of the project is its impact on the environment
  • She admired every aspect of his performance
element

The word 'element' is used to describe a basic or essential part of something larger. It conveys the idea of a fundamental component that contributes to the whole.

  • Water is a crucial element for life
  • Trust is an important element in any relationship

Examples of usage

  • She managed to find out every cranny of the mystery.
  • The detective examined every cranny of the crime scene.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Architecture

  • In buildings, crannies can be places where dust, dirt, and insects tend to collect, often hard to reach during cleaning.
  • Crenelated walls in castles have crannies that provide spaces for archers to shoot while remaining protected.
  • Many architectural designs consider small crannies for ventilation or aesthetic detail.

Nature

  • Crannies in rocks can serve as homes for various small creatures, such as lizards and insects.
  • Marine ecosystems rely on crannies in coral reefs for shelter of fish and other sea life.
  • In gardening, crannies in soil can affect water drainage and the types of plants that will thrive.

Idioms & Phrases

  • 'Through every cranny' is a phrase used to describe thoroughness, indicating that something has been explored everywhere.
  • In some cultures, people say 'keeping your crannies clean' as a way of emphasizing the importance of small details.
  • The term can also be found in literary works to describe hidden aspects of life or forgotten spaces.

Literature

  • The term is often used in poetry and prose to evoke imagery of hidden places or secrets.
  • In many stories, characters might find treasures hidden deep within a cranny of a cave or cliff.
  • Writers use crannies to symbolize overlooked aspects of a person or a story, highlighting the importance of small details.

Origin of 'cranny'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'cranny' comes from the Middle English word 'cran,' meaning 'to crack or split.'
  • It's thought to be related to the word 'crack,' showing its connection to small openings.
  • This term has been in use since the 14th century to describe small gaps.

The word 'cranny' originated from Middle English 'crani', which came from Old French 'craigne', meaning 'fissure'. It has been used in English since the 15th century. Over time, 'cranny' evolved to represent not only physical crevices but also small details or pieces of information. It has maintained its relevance in both literal and figurative contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,508, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.