Efface Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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efface
[ษชหfeษชs ]
Definition
erase
To remove or obliterate something by wiping or scraping it away. It can also refer to the act of making oneself inconspicuous or hidden.
Synonyms
delete, erase, obliterate, remove.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| efface |
To efface is to remove or erase something, often figuratively. It's commonly used in more formal or literary contexts.
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| erase |
Erase is generally used for removing physical marks or digital data. It can also be used figuratively to indicate removing from memory or existence.
|
| delete |
Delete is used in the context of removing digital data, text, or information. It's a common term in computing and everyday digital interactions.
|
| remove |
Remove is a versatile word used for taking something away from its current position. It can be used in both physical and abstract contexts.
|
| obliterate |
To obliterate means to destroy completely, leaving no trace. This word is often used in a more intense, dramatic, or violent context.
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Examples of usage
- She used a cloth to efface the writing on the whiteboard.
- The graffiti on the wall was effaced by the city council.
- He tried to efface himself in the crowd by wearing a hat and sunglasses.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Art
- In visual art, to efface can mean to remove or obscure elements of a piece, creating new interpretations.
- Some artists intentionally efface parts of their work to question authenticity and authorship.
- Effacing is a technique used in street art where artists may whitewash their previous work or others' to give space for new creations.
Psychology
- The act of effacing memories can be a coping mechanism for individuals dealing with trauma or grief.
- Some psychologists discuss the concept of 'cognitive effacement', where certain memories fade or are softened over time.
- The balance between remembering and effacing experiences is a critical area of study in how we process past events.
Technology
- Data erasure technologies are often referred to as 'effacing' data to prevent recovery and enhance security.
- In software development, to efface data means to delete or nullify information that is no longer needed.
- Modern smartphones often have an 'efface' option to restore devices to factory settings, removing all personal data.
Literature
- In literature, characters may strive to efface their identities, creating themes of transformation and reinvention.
- Literary critics may analyze how authors efface certain narratives to focus on the main plot, enriching the reading experience.
- The theme of effacing past mistakes often appears in moral tales, emphasizing growth and redemption.
Origin of 'efface'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'effacere', meaning 'to erase' or 'to do away with'.
- The prefix 'ef-' means 'out' or 'away', combined with 'facere', meaning 'to make or do'.
- The term first appeared in English in the early 19th century, showing its roots in both action and removal.
The word 'efface' originated from the Latin word 'effacere', which means 'to wipe out'. Over time, the meaning evolved to include not just physical removal, but also the idea of making oneself less noticeable. The word has been used in English since the 15th century, with its current definition solidifying in the 17th century.