Darkness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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darkness
[ˈdɑːrk.nəs ]
Definitions
in the night
Darkness refers to the absence of light. It is the state of being dark, the opposite of brightness. Darkness can also symbolize ignorance, evil, mystery, or fear.
Synonyms
blackness, dimness, obscurity.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| darkness |
Used in general contexts for absence of light or to describe a situation of complete or nearly complete lack of light. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a state of ignorance or fear.
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| blackness |
Often describes something intensely dark or the characteristic of being black. It can be used both literally and metaphorically, including negative connotations when referring to despair or evil.
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| obscurity |
Implies a lack of clarity or being hidden. It can refer to something not well-known or difficult to understand, rather than just the absence of light.
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| dimness |
Refers to a situation with insufficient light or a low level of brightness. It often conveys a softer, less intense lack of light compared to 'darkness'.
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Examples of usage
- The darkness of the night enveloped the city.
- He was afraid of the darkness in the forest.
- She preferred to sleep in complete darkness.
emotional state
Darkness can also refer to a state of sadness, hopelessness, or despair. It is often used metaphorically to describe a feeling of gloom or depression.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| darkness |
Again, used to describe the state of being without light or a situation where there is a lack of hope or understanding.
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| gloom |
Describes a state of partial or total darkness, often used metaphorically to describe a feeling of sadness or depression.
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| despair |
Refers to a complete loss or absence of hope. It has a strong negative connotation.
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| melancholy |
Refers to a deep, persistent sadness or sorrow, often with a poetic or more reflective tone.
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Examples of usage
- She was lost in the darkness of her own thoughts.
- The darkness of his past haunted him.
- The news brought darkness to their hearts.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Some people find darkness calming because it can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
- Others may experience fear in darkness due to its connection with the unknown and potential dangers.
- Darkness can enhance sensory perception, making sounds or smells more noticeable.
Literature
- Darkness often symbolizes evil or danger in literature, representing the conflict between good and bad.
- In Gothic literature, darkness sets the mood for suspenseful narratives, drawing readers into eerie atmospheres.
- Many famous works use darkness as a metaphor for internal struggles or moral dilemmas faced by characters.
Science
- In physics, darkness doesn't exist as a separate entity but is understood as the absence of visible light.
- Astronomers study dark matter, which makes up most of the universe but cannot be seen directly.
- Certain animals have evolved to thrive in darkness, developing enhanced night vision to navigate and hunt.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, the change from day to night marks significant rituals or traditions, symbolizing rebirth or rest.
- Folk tales from around the world often portray darkness as a time for magical encounters or supernatural events.
- Various festivals celebrate light overcoming darkness, such as Diwali in India, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
Art
- Darkness is a popular theme in art, where it can evoke strong emotions and highlight contrasts between light and shadow.
- The use of chiaroscuro, a technique involving strong contrasts between light and dark, has been crucial in many renowned paintings.
- Artists often utilize darkness to provoke thought or convey deeper meanings in their work, inviting viewers to explore unseen realms.
Origin of 'darkness'
The word 'darkness' has Old English roots, deriving from the word 'deorc' meaning 'unlit, obscure, gloomy'. Over time, it has evolved to encompass both the literal absence of light and metaphorical meanings related to emotions. Darkness has been a concept deeply ingrained in human culture, often associated with mystery, fear, and the unknown.