Crumpling: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Old English 'crompellan', which means 'to crumple or curl'.
• It is related to similar words in German and Dutch that also describe the action of making something wrinkled.
• The transformation of 'crumple' into 'crumpling' shows how English words evolve in form to describe ongoing actions.

Science

• In physics, crumpling can illustrate how materials behave under pressure, showcasing the transition from a smooth state to a deformed one.
• Research in materials science studies crumpling to improve the durability of packaging and protect fragile items.
• Crumpling paper uses less energy than tearing it, demonstrating how different actions result in various states of matter.

Art

• Crumpling is often a technique used in sculpture and origami, giving texture and depth to otherwise flat materials.
• Some artists intentionally crumple paper to create unique textures in their artworks, playing with light and shadow.
• The act of crumpling can symbolize chaos or emotional turmoil in visual storytelling.

Psychology

• People may crumple paper when stressed, as a physical manifestation of their feelings.
• Crumpling can represent the struggle against perfectionism; hitting 'reset' on unrealistic expectations.
• Tactile activities like crumpling can serve as a stress relief tool, helping to refocus attention.

Pop Culture

• Animated movies often use crumpling effects to depict emotional scenes, where objects mirror characters' feelings.
• In music videos and performances, dancers may use crumpling cloth to enhance movement and expressiveness.
• Crumpling paper is often featured in stop-motion animations, making objects come alive through exaggerated physical actions.

This word's position of #32,380 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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• 32377 prickling
• 32378 antonym
• 32379 glossing
• 32380 crumpling
• 32381 tweeds
• 32382 pinky
• 32383 reinvigorate
• ...