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Echoed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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echoed

[ˈɛkoʊd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

sound reflection

Echoed refers to the repetition of a sound caused by the reflection of sound waves off surfaces. It is often used to describe how sounds can bounce back after hitting a wall, mountain, or other obstacles. This phenomenon can also be metaphorically used to suggest that an idea or emotion resonates or is repeated in a certain context.

Synonyms

reechoed, repeated, resounded, reverberated.

Examples of usage

  • The voices echoed in the empty hall.
  • Her laughter echoed through the mountains.
  • He echoed her sentiments about the importance of unity.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Echoes occur when sound waves bounce off surfaces like mountains or buildings.
  • The phenomenon is used in underwater exploration by submarines to locate objects.
  • Animals like dolphins and whales use echolocation to navigate and hunt in dark waters.

Literature

  • Many poets use echoes as a metaphor for thoughts or emotions that linger, representing memory.
  • Famous works, such as Edgar Allan Poe's 'The Bells,' explore the beauty of echoed sounds in nature and life.
  • In Shakespeare's plays, echoes often signify past actions that reflect on the present.

Pop Culture

  • The concept of echoing is prominent in songs and music, symbolizing themes of love and longing.
  • Movies like 'Echo' showcase supernatural elements where past voices or sounds come back to haunt characters.
  • Echoes in gaming often enhance immersion, creating a more realistic experience for players exploring vast worlds.

Philosophy

  • Some philosophers use the idea of echoing to discuss how our actions and words resonate through time.
  • The notion of echoes can illustrate themes of identity, where past experiences continuously influence who we are.
  • In existential thought, echoes may represent the search for meaning in repetitive cycles of life.

Origin of 'echoed'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek word 'ēkhō,' meaning 'sound' or 'voice.'
  • Its use in English dates back to the 14th century, initially referring to the repetition of sounds.
  • Related words include 'echolocation,' used by animals like bats to find their way around.

The word 'echo' comes from the Latin 'echo', which itself derives from the Greek 'ēkhō', meaning 'sound' or 'noise'. In Greek mythology, Echo was a mountain nymph who could only repeat the last words spoken to her, thereby giving rise to the metaphorical use of the term to signify the repetition of sounds or ideas. The term has been used in English since the late Middle Ages, evolving in its application from a literal sound phenomenon to various metaphorical uses in literature and speech. The verb form 'echoed' emphasizes the action of this repetition, whether in sound, feeling, or thought.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,755 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.