Descry Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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descry
[dษช'skraษช ]
Definition
literary usage
To descry means to catch sight of something, especially something that is not easily visible. It is often used in a more literary or old-fashioned context to describe the act of discerning or detecting something from a distance or through obscured visibility. The term emphasizes the effort involved in spotting or identifying the object or detail, often implying a sense of discovery or revelation. It can convey a sense of alertness and keen observation.
Synonyms
detect, discern, perceive, spot.
Examples of usage
- As I climbed the hill, I could descry the village nestled in the valley.
- With a telescope, sailors could descry ships approaching from afar.
- He squinted into the fog, trying to descry any signs of life.
- In the distance, I could descry the outline of the mountains.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- Many classic novels use this term to describe characters spotting important objects or people from a distance, often creating dramatic tension.
- Famous writers, including Shakespeare, have employed the word in poetry to evoke a sense of sight and discovery.
- In literary analysis, it reflects not just the act of seeing, but the emotional and narrative weight of that sighting.
Science
- In biology, animals use keen eyesight to 'descry' prey or predators from a distance, which is crucial for survival.
- Astronomy uses the term in the context of 'descried' celestial objects, highlighting the challenge of spotting distant stars or planets.
- In physics, light's behavior enables observers to descry objects based on distance and visibility, revealing how perception works.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, the ability to descry the first signs of spring is celebrated in festivals, symbolizing hope and new beginnings.
- Explorers and sailors historically relied on their ability to descry land or other ships, which was vital for navigation and safety.
- In folklore, the act of descriing often preceded moments of revelation or fortune, emphasizing its symbolic importance.
Origin of 'descry'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'discernere,' which means 'to separate' or 'to distinguish,' emphasizing the act of seeing clearly.
- In the late Middle Ages, 'descry' was often used in literature to imply discovering or revealing something hidden.
- The prefix 'de-' indicates removal or reversal, hinting at uncovering something not easily seen.
The word 'descry' originates from the Middle English term 'descrien', which meant 'to describe' or 'to make known' and is linked to the Old French 'descrier', meaning 'to proclaim'. The root can be traced further back to the Latin 'describere', which means 'to write down' or 'to depict'. Historically, 'descry' has been used in literature and poetry to evoke the act of spotting or revealing something that might not be immediately apparent. Its usage declined over time, but it retains a literary charm and is often seen in classic texts. The prefix 'de-' indicates a removal or reversal, while 'cry' relates to seeing or calling out, creating a fascinating blend in meaning that highlights the nuances of discovery and perception.