Crescent: meaning, definitions and examples

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crescent

[ˈkrɛsənt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

shape, moon

A crescent is a shape resembling a segment of a ring that is wider at one end than the other, often thought of in the context of the moon. This term commonly describes the moon's phases, specifically when it appears as a sliver of light, either waxing or waning. The crescent shape symbolizes change and cycles, and it is also used in various cultures and religions, signifying growth and potential. The crescent is often depicted in art and literature, representing beauty and mystery.

Synonyms

arc, curve, sickle.

Examples of usage

The crescent moon shone brightly in the night sky.
The logo featured a golden crescent symbol.
She wore a pendant shaped like a crescent.
The garden was designed with crescent-shaped paths.
They observed the crescent's change over the month.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

moon, shape

Crescent as an adjective describes something that has the shape of a crescent or pertains to the crescent phase of the moon. This term is typically used when discussing celestial bodies, highlighting their distinct morphology during specific phases. The word can also evoke artistic representations of curves and arcs in design and aesthetics, and it often carries connotations of beauty and elegance.

Synonyms

arciform, curved, sickle-shaped.

Examples of usage

The crescent moon hung low in the evening sky.
She admired the crescent jewelry she received.
The city was lit by the soft glow of the crescent lampposts.
The cake was decorated with a crescent motif.
He used a crescent template to draw perfect arcs.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'crescent' comes from the Latin 'crescere', which means 'to grow'.
It was first used in the English language around the late 14th century.
The word is also linked to the French word 'croissant', which means 'growing' or 'increasing'.

Astronomy

The moon goes through different phases, and the crescent phase occurs right before the new moon and after the first quarter.
A crescent moon is often associated with the beginning of the lunar month in many cultures.
In astronomy, the angle of the crescent moon can help indicate the position of the sun and earth relative to the moon.

Cultural Significance

The crescent moon is a symbol of Islam and appears on many flags, representing faith and spirituality.
In various cultures, the crescent shape is associated with fertility and growth, symbolizing new beginnings.
In ancient Egypt, the crescent was linked to the goddess Hathor, representing love and motherhood.

Art and Literature

Crescents have been popular motifs in art, often symbolizing change and the passage of time.
In literature, crescents are used metaphorically to represent cycles and transitions in characters' journeys.
Famous paintings often use the crescent moon to evoke feelings of mystery and wonder.

Psychology

The crescent shape can evoke feelings of calmness and tranquility, often linked to the night sky.
Studies show that people might perceive objects in crescent shapes as more pleasing and harmonious.
Crescents can trigger nostalgia or a sense of wonder, linking to memories of nighttime activities.

Translations

Translations of the word "crescent" in other languages:

🇵🇹 crescente

🇮🇳 अर्धचंद्र

🇩🇪 Mondsichel

🇮🇩 bulan sabit

🇺🇦 півмісяць

🇵🇱 półksiężyc

🇯🇵 三日月

🇫🇷 croissant

🇪🇸 media luna

🇹🇷 hilal

🇰🇷 초승달

🇸🇦 هلال

🇨🇿 srpek

🇸🇰 polmesiac

🇨🇳 新月

🇸🇮 polmesec

🇮🇸 máni

🇰🇿 жарты ай

🇬🇪 ნახევარ მთვარეზე

🇦🇿 yarım ay

🇲🇽 media luna

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,384, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

...
14381 ail
14382 mend
14383 reclaim
14384 crescent
14385 unbalanced
14386 probabilistic
14387 rocked
...