Elapsed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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elapsed
[ɪˈlæpsɪd ]
Definition
time passage
Elapsed refers to time that has passed or gone by. It is often used to indicate the duration of a specific event or period. For example, when someone says that an hour has elapsed, it means that an hour has gone by since a certain point in time. This term is commonly used in both casual language and formal contexts when discussing time intervals. The use of 'elapsed' helps to clarify the amount of time that has transpired between two points.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Three hours have elapsed since the meeting started.
- The elapsed time during the race was recorded as over two hours.
- She noticed how much time had elapsed while waiting for the train.
- In these last ten minutes, not much has elapsed.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In physics, elapsed time is crucial in calculating velocity and acceleration in motion studies.
- In the theory of relativity, the perception of elapsed time can vary depending on relative speed and gravitational fields.
- Biologists measure the elapsed time for processes like fermentation or growth, significant in experiments and product developments.
Literature
- The concept of time elapsed is often a theme in classic literature, symbolizing change or growth in characters.
- Many authors use the technique of time lapse to show how characters evolve over the years, affecting their decisions.
- In poetry, elapsed time can evoke nostalgia, reminding readers of what once was versus what is now.
Psychology
- The way people perceive elapsed time can differ based on their activities; enjoyable things often feel quicker, while waiting can feel dragged out.
- Studies show that anticipation can distort the perception of elapsed time, making it feel longer or shorter.
- Memories can also affect our perception of elapsed time, with vivid memories making periods seem longer when we recall them.
Pop Culture
- In movies, directors often use time jumps to show significant periods that have elapsed, which can create suspense or surprise.
- Video games frequently measure elapsed time accurately, affecting gameplay and achievements, especially in speed-running contexts.
- Music often explores themes of time elapsed, with lyrics reflecting on experiences over the years or the passage of moments.
Origin of 'elapsed'
Main points about word origin
- Derived from the Latin word 'elapsus', meaning 'to slip away'.
- The prefix 'e-' in Latin implies 'out of' or 'away from', which helps illustrate how time moves from the present into the past.
- First recorded use in English dates back to the late 14th century, often in the context of time.
The term 'elapsed' originates from the Latin word 'elapsus', which means 'to slip away', derived from the verb 'elabi', composed of 'e-' meaning 'out' and 'labi' meaning 'to slide'. This term was adopted into Middle English around the late 14th century. In its usage, 'elapsed' began to develop a more specific meaning related to time, indicating the forward movement of time and the passage of intervals. The popularization of this term in various temporal contexts reflects society's growing focus on measuring and understanding time. As timekeeping became more standardized, the use of 'elapsed' in scientific and everyday language also grew, particularly in fields such as physics and athletics, where precision in time measurement became essential.