Deafeningly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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deafeningly
[ˌdɛfənɪŋli ]
Definition
extreme noise
The term 'deafeningly' is used to describe a sound that is extremely loud and overwhelming, often to the point where it is difficult for the ears to process other noises. It typically conveys a sense of discomfort or intensity, suggesting that the volume is so high that it figuratively 'deafens' those who hear it. This word can describe various situations, such as a concert, an explosion, or loud machinery. The use of 'deafeningly' adds emphasis to the severity of the noise.
Synonyms
blaringly, extremely loud, piercingly, thunderously.
Examples of usage
- The crowd cheered deafeningly after the winning goal.
- The music played deafeningly in the packed stadium.
- He shouted deafeningly to be heard over the noise.
- The thunder crashed deafeningly, shaking the windows.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- Sounds above 85 decibels can cause hearing damage; 'deafeningly' often refers to sounds that reach or exceed 120 decibels, like a rock concert.
- Research suggests exposure to deafeningly loud sounds can lead to tinnitus, a ringing sensation in the ears.
- Sound intensity is measured in decibels (dB), where each increase of 10 dB represents a tenfold increase in sound intensity.
Pop Culture
- Many movies use deafeningly loud sound effects during action scenes to create intensity and excitement.
- Songs with a strong emphasis on drums and bass can often be described as deafeningly loud when played at high volumes.
Psychology
- Extremely loud noises can trigger stress responses in the body, leading to increased heart rates and anxiety.
- Studies have shown that constant exposure to deafening sounds can impact concentration and cognitive performance.
Literature
- In poetry and prose, 'deafeningly' is often used to describe overwhelming moments, whether they are moments of joy, chaos, or despair, emphasizing the emotional weight.
- Authors might use deafeningly loud settings to create tension or highlight a character's internal struggle or conflict.
Origin of 'deafeningly'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from 'deafen', which means to make someone unable to hear, combined with the suffix '-ingly' to describe the extent of the noise.
- It first appeared in English in the early 19th century as a way to express extreme loudness.
The word 'deafeningly' originates from the adjective 'deafening', which itself comes from the Middle English term 'deafenen'. This term is derived from the Old English verb 'deafian', meaning 'to make deaf or to deafen'. The adverbial form was created by adding the suffix '-ly', which is common in English for forming adverbs that describe the manner of an action. 'Deafening' began to take on the figurative meaning of overwhelming sound or noise in the 19th century. In modern usage, 'deafeningly' emphasizes the extreme nature of sound, often in contexts where the noise is not just loud but startling, uncomfortable, or impossible to ignore. The evolution of the word reflects a growing understanding of sound in both literal and metaphorical contexts, particularly in literary and colloquial expressions.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #40,525, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.