Dwarfed: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Old English 'dweorg', which means a small, mythical creature.
• Historically, 'dwarf' was used in Germanic languages to describe beings that were less than normal size.

Science

• In astronomy, dwarf planets are celestial bodies that orbit the sun but do not have enough gravity to become spherical.
• Certain star types, called 'dwarf stars', are much smaller than giants but still play a significant role in the universe.

Literature

• In J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth, dwarves are depicted as sturdy and skilled craftsmen, often contrasted with larger beings.
• The concept of dwarfed in literature often symbolizes underestimation of capabilities based on size.

Cultural Representation

• In fairy tales, dwarfs are often portrayed with magical abilities yet face hardships due to their size.
• In some cultures, the term is used negatively; however, there is a growing movement to celebrate diversity in body types.

Psychology

• Research shows that people often associate size with strength; smaller individuals are sometimes perceived as less capable.
• The feeling of being dwarfed can lead to inferiority complexes in social situations, impacting confidence.

Positioned at #20,794, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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• 20794 dwarfed
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