Dense: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin 'densus,' meaning thick or closely packed.
• In English, 'dense' has been used since the late 14th century to describe something that is thick or heavy.
• Over time, the word has taken on additional meanings, like referring to a complicated idea as 'dense.'

Science

• In physics, density is defined as the mass of a substance divided by its volume, explaining why some objects sink while others float.
• Water is often used as a reference for density, with substances less dense floating and denser substances sinking.
• Astronomically, black holes are regions of space that are incredibly dense, compressing a huge amount of mass into a very small area.

Literature

• In literature, a dense text may have complex language or ideas that require careful reading and thought.
• Classic novels often contain dense narrative structures, with multiple characters and intricate plots that reward deep analysis.
• Poets may use density in their work to evoke rich imagery and layered meanings, encouraging readers to explore beneath the surface.

Pop Culture

• In film, a dense plot can signify a story that requires audience members to pay close attention to understand the twists and turns.
• Comics sometimes use dense panels filled with action or dialogue to convey an intense moment in the story.
• A 'dense' character in movies might be portrayed as struggling to grasp simple concepts, often for comedic effect.

Psychology

• In psychology, a dense conversation can refer to when people discuss heavy topics that require deep thinking and emotional engagement.
• Procedures can become dense if they are overly complicated, making it harder for people to understand or follow them.
• Cognitive density in learning refers to the quality of information presented; more dense material may require more study and concentration.

With rank #4,401, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.

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