Flattened Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฒ
flattened
[หflรฆtnd ]
Definitions
data structures
Having a structure where all elements are stored in a single level without any nested structures.
Synonyms
collapsed, compressed, unrolled.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| flattened |
Used when something is made level or even, often by applying pressure. Commonly used to describe surfaces, shapes, or objects that were initially uneven or bulky.
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| unrolled |
Refers to something being opened or extended from a rolled state. Commonly used for items like carpets, scrolls, or plans.
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| compressed |
Describes something that has been pressed or squeezed to reduce its size or volume. Frequently used in technical, medical, or material contexts.
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| collapsed |
Typically refers to something that has fallen down or given way under pressure or lack of strength. Often used in situations involving structures, physical conditions, or even metaphorically for failures.
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Examples of usage
- The flattened array contains all the elements from the nested arrays.
- In a flattened dictionary, all the key-value pairs are at the same level.
cooking
To press or beat a food item to make it thinner and wider.
Synonyms
pound, roll out, thin out.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| flattened |
Used when something has been made flat, often inadvertently or by applying pressure. Can refer to both physical objects and abstract concepts.
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| thin out |
Used when something is made less dense or more spread out, often referring to the process of reducing thickness or removing some content. Can also be used for plants and hair.
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| pound |
Used when something is hit repeatedly to make it flat or to crush it. Often refers to the preparation of food or crafting activities. Can have a slightly violent connotation.
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| roll out |
Typically used in the context of preparing dough or a similar material, spreading it out evenly with a rolling pin. Also used metaphorically for introducing a new service or product.
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Examples of usage
- She flattened the chicken breasts with a meat tenderizer.
- The dough needs to be flattened before baking the pizza.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In physics, forces acting on an object can cause it to flatten, which illustrates the relationship between pressure and shape.
- Flattening is a common occurrence in nature, such as when snowflakes or leaves lie flat against the ground during heavy snow or rain.
- The principle of flattening is seen in the manufacturing of materials, like when steel sheets are pressed flat for construction.
Pop Culture
- In animation and graphic design, 'flattening' is a technique where multiple layers of an image are merged into one, simplifying the edit process.
- The term gained popularity in the tech world during the emergence of โflat designโ in user interface design, which emphasizes minimalism.
- Cartoon characters often get flattened in humorous situations, like when a character gets squished by a heavy object, providing comedic effect.
Literature
- In poetry, the idea of flattening can symbolize loss, where a character's emotional landscape becomes subdued or less dynamic.
- The metaphor of flattening is used in various literary works to discuss the effects of societal pressures on individuality.
- Authors often depict flat characters as lacking depth, both literally in their development and metaphorically in their journeys.
Psychology
- Flattening can also describe an emotional state where a person's expressions and feelings are subdued, often linked to certain depression symptoms.
- In cognitive psychology, the flattening of ideas can signify a reduction in creativity when individuals face constraints.
- Therapists may encourage 'flattening' thoughts to facilitate clearer communication, helping clients express feelings more directly.
Origin of 'flattened'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'flattened' comes from the root word 'flat,' which has origins in Old English 'flaet,' meaning smooth or level.
- It is formed by adding '-en' to the adjective 'flat,' turning it into a verb that describes the action of making something flat.
- 'Flatten' ties back to Middle English 'flaten' meaning to cause to be flat, emphasizing the semantic transformation through history.
The word 'flattened' originates from the verb 'flatten', which has been in use since the 16th century. The prefix 'flat-' comes from Old English 'flet', meaning 'floor' or 'level ground', indicating the idea of making something flat or level. Over the centuries, the word has evolved to be used in various contexts, from describing data structures to cooking techniques.
See also: flat, flatfish, flatiron, flatly, flatness, flats, flatten, flatter, flattery, flatware, unflattering.