Crumpled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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crumpled
[ˈkrʌmpəld ]
Definitions
paper
Crumpled means wrinkled or crushed into small creases or folds. It is often used to describe a piece of paper that has been squeezed into a ball or folded multiple times.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| crumpled |
Often describes paper, fabric, or thin materials that have been pushed or folded into a messy form.
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| wrinkled |
Usually used for fabric, skin, or thin materials that have small, parallel folds. Often refers to clothes or aging skin.
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| crushed |
Describes something that has been pressed with great force, possibly damaging it. Often has a negative or severe connotation.
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| creased |
Refers to clear lines or folds in materials, usually clothes or paper, often unintentionally.
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Examples of usage
- The crumpled paper lay on the floor.
- She handed me a crumpled note.
- He tried to smooth out the crumpled map.
clothing
Crumpled is also used as a verb to describe the action of crushing or wrinkling something, typically fabric or clothing.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| crumpled |
Usually used to describe something that has been crushed or crinkled into a messy or disordered state, often due to mishandling or careless storage.
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| wrinkle |
Typically used for small folds or lines that appear on a surface, often associated with fabric or human skin. These folds can be due to compression, aging, or other factors.
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| crease |
Often used regarding fabrics or paper that have been folded and left with a sharp line, sometimes unintentionally. It can also refer to intentional folds, like those on clothes or paper.
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Examples of usage
- She crumpled her dress in frustration.
- He crumpled the paper napkin after dinner.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Research indicates that viewing crumpled or disordered spaces can lead to feelings of chaos or stress.
- The appearance of crumpled materials may evoke nostalgia, recalling memories of childhood art projects or note-taking.
- Crumpled objects can symbolize imperfection, which is often linked to creative processes and authenticity.
Art
- Crumpled paper is a technique used in sculpting and mixed media art to create unique textures and forms.
- Artists sometimes intentionally crumple designs to express emotional turmoil or spontaneity.
- Using crumpled materials has become popular in contemporary art installations, offering commentary on waste and recycling.
Fashion
- Crumpled fabrics like linen and seersucker are fashionable for casual summer styles, embracing a relaxed look.
- The aesthetic of crumpled clothing has inspired designers to promote 'effortless' style, appealing to modern, busy lifestyles.
- Fashion trends often see crumpled looks as a way to blend comfort with casual elegance.
Nature
- In nature, certain leaves become crumpled when they dry out, affecting their ability to photosynthesize.
- Crumpled shapes can be observed in various ecosystems, reflecting adaptability and response to environmental pressure.
- Some animals use crumpling as a tactic; for instance, a crumpled shell can serve as camouflage in a rocky habitat.
Origin of 'crumpled'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Middle English term 'crumplen,' which meant to crumple or bend.
- In Old English, there was 'crumpa,' reflecting the idea of bending or folding.
- The evolution of the term reflects a shift from physical bending to describing things like paper or fabric.
The word 'crumpled' originated from the Middle English word 'crumplen', which means to curl or wrap. Over time, it evolved to its current usage to describe something wrinkled or crushed. The action of crumpling has been a common occurrence throughout history, especially with paper and fabric.