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Denizens Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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denizens

[ˈdɛnɪz(ə)nz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

resident in a particular place

Denizens are people who live in a particular place, especially a place which is not their original home. They are considered residents of that place, often having a sense of belonging and familiarity with the surroundings.

Synonyms

citizen, dweller, inhabitant, resident.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
citizen

This term is used to describe someone who legally belongs to a particular country and has rights and responsibilities there.

  • She is a citizen of the United States.
  • As a citizen, you have the right to vote.

Examples of usage

  • Denizens of the small town gathered at the local diner every morning.
  • The denizens of the forest included various wildlife such as deer and rabbits.
  • She quickly became a denizen of the bustling city, adapting to the fast-paced lifestyle.
  • The denizens of the neighborhood were known for their tight-knit community spirit.
Context #2 | Noun

an inhabitant or occupant of a particular place

Denizens can also refer to any living being that inhabits or occupies a specific area, whether it be humans, animals, or even supernatural creatures in fictional settings. It implies a sense of belonging or ownership within that space.

Synonyms

dweller, inhabitant, occupant, resident.

Examples of usage

  • The denizens of the underwater world are diverse and fascinating.
  • He considered himself a denizen of the art world, attending gallery openings regularly.
  • The denizens of the haunted house were said to be restless spirits from centuries past.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Ecology

  • In ecology, denizens can refer to species that exclusively inhabit specific ecosystems, showing high specialization.
  • These inhabitants play crucial roles in their habitats, influencing food chains and ecosystem dynamics.
  • The decline in certain animal denizens due to habitat destruction raises concerns about biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Pop Culture

  • The term has been used in literature and movies to describe creatures or characters that inhabit particular worlds, making it popular in fantasy settings.
  • In the game 'Fallout', various denizens of post-apocalyptic worlds represent different societal responses to disaster.
  • Denizens often symbolize the underlying themes and struggles within fictional narratives.

Sociology

  • In urban studies, denizens can refer to residents of a city, emphasizing their connection to urban communities and cultures.
  • Sociologists explore how various denizens interact within their environments, shaping local identities.
  • The concept of denizens also applies to transplants, such as migrants, who may not have full citizenship but inhabit new communities.

Literature

  • Literary works often depict denizens metaphorically, emphasizing themes of belonging and community.
  • Classic and contemporary authors frequently explore the tension between denizens and outsiders, highlighting societal divides.
  • The portrayal of denizens reflects cultural values, illustrating how different societies perceive notions of belonging.

Origin of 'denizens'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the late Middle Ages, derived from the Latin 'de-' meaning out of and 'in' meaning in.
  • It was initially used in English to refer specifically to foreigners permitted to reside in a country.
  • Over time, its meaning expanded to refer to any regular inhabitants or residents of a place.

The word 'denizens' originated from the Old French term 'denzein', which meant 'inhabitant' or 'resident'. It later evolved in Middle English to refer to a resident alien granted certain rights and privileges. Over time, the term broadened to encompass any resident or occupant of a particular place, regardless of origin. Denizens signify a sense of belonging and community within a specific location, highlighting the diverse inhabitants that populate our world.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,355, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.