Drawing: meaning, definitions and examples

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drawing

 

[ˈdrɔːɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

art

The art of making pictures or diagrams with a pencil, pen, or brush.

Synonyms

doodling, illustrating, sketching.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
drawing

Used to describe the process or result of creating an image using tools like pencils, pens, or markers, often with attention to detail and technique.

  • She spent hours on a drawing of the sunset
  • The children enjoyed drawing pictures of animals
sketching

Refers to making rough, quick drawings often used as a preliminary step for more detailed artwork or to capture an idea rapidly.

  • She sat down by the river, sketching the landscape
  • He is sketching out his ideas for the new project
illustrating

Commonly used when creating images that complement or explain text, typically for books, articles, manuals, or presentations.

  • She is illustrating a children's book
  • He is illustrating an article for the magazine
doodling

Refers to the act of making spontaneous, unfocused marks or simple drawings, often while distracted or thinking about something else.

  • He was doodling in his notebook during the meeting
  • She amused herself by doodling on the edge of her papers

Examples of usage

  • She has a talent for drawing.
  • He enjoys drawing landscapes and portraits.
Context #2 | Noun

lottery

A lottery in which the prizes are drawn in the form of lots.

Synonyms

lottery, raffle, sweepstakes.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
drawing

Used when discussing the act of selecting winners in a formal event or competition, typically in a smaller, more controlled setting.

  • The company held a drawing to give away free products to their customers.
  • We will announce the winner at the end of the drawing.
raffle

Generally used for events often organized to raise funds for a specific cause, where participants buy tickets to win various prizes.

  • They are hosting a raffle to raise money for the school playground.
  • I bought a ticket for the charity raffle.
lottery

Commonly used for state-run or national games of chance where participants buy tickets for a chance to win large cash prizes.

  • He won a million dollars in the state lottery.
  • She buys a lottery ticket every week.
sweepstakes

Typically used for commercial promotions or contests where participants enter for free or by making a purchase, and winners are chosen randomly.

  • I entered the sweepstakes to win a new car.
  • The magazine is offering a sweepstakes with big prizes.

Examples of usage

  • She won a prize in the drawing.
  • The drawing will take place next Friday.
Context #3 | Noun

pulling

The act of pulling something or someone.

Synonyms

hauling, pulling, tugging.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
drawing

Use this to describe a process of extracting something, such as water from a well or blood for a test.

  • The nurse is drawing blood for the test
  • They are drawing water from the well
pulling

Use this to describe applying force to move something towards oneself or in the direction of the force.

  • She was pulling the door to open it
  • He kept pulling the rope to lift the bucket
tugging

Use this to describe short, sharp pulls, often involving a sense of struggle. This word can sometimes have a negative tone.

  • The dog was tugging on its leash, trying to run
  • The child was tugging at his mother's sleeve to get her attention
hauling

Use this to describe the act of pulling or dragging something heavy, often involving significant effort or mechanical assistance.

  • The workers were hauling the heavy machinery into place
  • We spent the afternoon hauling loads of lumber for the project

Examples of usage

  • The drawing of the curtains.
  • The drawing of the cart.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'drawing' comes from the Old English word 'dragian', which means to pull or drag, relating to dragging a tool over paper to create lines.
  • In Latin, 'delineare' means to outline, which links to how drawing often starts with outlines before adding details.
  • Historical art forms have evolved into what we now call drawing, with the practice existing in various cultures for thousands of years.

Art History

  • During the Renaissance, drawing was recognized as an essential skill for artists, often used for planning larger works like paintings and sculptures.
  • Famous artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo created thousands of drawings, showing their thoughts on form and design.
  • The 20th century witnessed movements such as Surrealism, where drawing became a tool for expressing dreams and the subconscious.

Psychology

  • Studies show that engaging in drawing can enhance cognitive development in children, improving motor skills and creativity.
  • Art therapy uses drawing as a way for individuals to express feelings and thoughts that they might find hard to put into words.
  • Psychologists often analyze drawings to understand a person's emotional state or personality traits, as it reflects their inner world.

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, drawing has been a method for storytelling, such as the ancient cave paintings that depict hunting scenes.
  • Many religious texts have been illustrated with drawings to convey messages and teachings visually, enriching the spiritual experience.
  • In modern times, manga and anime have made drawing a popular form of entertainment, influencing global pop culture.

Technology and Innovation

  • With the advent of digital technology, drawing has evolved, allowing artists to create intricate designs using software and tablets.
  • 3D drawing technology enables designers to create life-like models for gaming and simulation, enhancing interactivity.
  • The rise of online platforms has connected artists worldwide, fostering collaboration and sharing in drawing communities.

Translations

Translations of the word "drawing" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desenho

🇮🇳 चित्र

🇩🇪 Zeichnung

🇮🇩 gambar

🇺🇦 малюнок

🇵🇱 rysunek

🇯🇵 

🇫🇷 dessin

🇪🇸 dibujo

🇹🇷 çizim

🇰🇷 그림

🇸🇦 رسم

🇨🇿 kresba

🇸🇰 kresba

🇨🇳 绘画

🇸🇮 risba

🇮🇸 teikning

🇰🇿 сурет

🇬🇪 ხატვა

🇦🇿 çəkiliş

🇲🇽 dibujo

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,819, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.