Dwarfed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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dwarfed
[ˈdwɔːrfɪd ]
Definition
size comparison
To dwarf something means to make it appear smaller or less significant in comparison to another thing. This can refer to physical size, such as a large tree dwarfing a small house, or metaphorical significance, where one event can dwarf another in importance. The term is often used in literature and conversation to emphasize the contrast between two entities.
Synonyms
outshine, overshadow, overwhelm, stunt.
Examples of usage
- The skyscraper dwarfed all the surrounding buildings.
- Her talent dwarfed that of her peers.
- The new regulations dwarfed previous laws.
- The mountain dwarfs the entire valley.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
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.
Origin of 'dwarfed'
Main points about word origin
- 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.
The term 'dwarf' originates from Old English 'dweorg', which referred to a creature of small stature, often found in mythology and folklore. This word has Germanic roots and is related to the Old Norse 'dvergr' and the Dutch 'dwerg', which also denote small beings. The verb form emerged in Middle English, adapting to express the action of making something smaller in relation to another object or concept. As language evolved, 'dwarf' transitioned from its mythological roots to a more general term used in various contexts, including science, literature, and everyday language.