Darkened: meaning, definitions and examples

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darkened

 

[ ˈdɑːrkənd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

past action

The term 'darkened' refers to the act of making something darker or less illuminated. This can be applied both literally, such as when the light in a room is turned off, or metaphorically, as in a mood or atmosphere. It denotes a change from a bright state to one that lacks light. The word is often used in creative literature to convey emotions or settings that are somber or serious.

Synonyms

clouded, dimmed, obscured, shaded

Examples of usage

  • The room darkened as the sun set.
  • Her expression darkened at the news.
  • The sky darkened before the storm.
  • His mood darkened after hearing the bad news.

Translations

Translations of the word "darkened" in other languages:

🇵🇹 escurecido

🇮🇳 अंधेरा

🇩🇪 dunkel

🇮🇩 gelap

🇺🇦 потемнілий

🇵🇱 ciemny

🇯🇵 暗い

🇫🇷 assombri

🇪🇸 oscurecido

🇹🇷 karartılmış

🇰🇷 어두운

🇸🇦 مظلم

🇨🇿 ztmavlý

🇸🇰 zatemnený

🇨🇳 变暗的

🇸🇮 temnen

🇮🇸 dimmur

🇰🇿 қараңғы

🇬🇪 ბნელი

🇦🇿 qaranlıq

🇲🇽 oscurecido

Etymology

The word 'darkened' is derived from the Old English word 'deorc', meaning 'dark' or 'not clear'. The verb form comes from the addition of the suffix '-en', which is used to form verbs indicating a change of state or process. 'Dark' has Germanic roots, and its usage has evolved over centuries, often retaining the connotation of the absence of light or brightness. In various literary contexts, 'darkened' has been used to express not only a physical dimming of light but also a metaphorical representation of emotions and atmospheres that are grave or ominous. The evolution of language saw 'darken' being solidified in usage by the late Middle Ages. Today, it is commonly used in both everyday language and literary works to paint vivid imagery.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,210, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.