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Flaxen Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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flaxen

[ˈflaksən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

hair color

Flaxen refers to a pale yellow or light golden color, often used to describe hair that resembles the color of flax. It is a term commonly associated with individuals who have light blonde hair. Flaxen hair can appear almost white in bright light or sunlight, drawing comparisons to the golden hue of ripe wheat. The term is often used in literature and poetry to evoke imagery of softness and lightness.

Synonyms

blonde, golden, light-colored.

Examples of usage

  • She wore her flaxen hair in loose waves.
  • The flaxen locks shimmered under the sun.
  • His flaxen beard gave him a youthful appearance.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In classical literature, characters with 'flaxen' features often symbolize innocence or purity.
  • The word frequently appears in poetry to evoke natural beauty, explaining the imagery of sunlit fields.

Cultural Significance

  • Flaxen-haired people were depicted in ancient art as embodying elegance and light.
  • In many cultures, light-colored hair can be associated with youth or desirability.

Fashion

  • The color flaxen has influenced fashion trends, especially in spring and summer collections.
  • Coats, dresses, and accessories in flaxen shades are often favored for their soft, cheerful appearance.

Botany

  • Flax plants grow to about 3 feet tall and bloom with beautiful blue flowers, which later turn into seeds used for oil.
  • The cultivation of flax dates back over 5,000 years, as one of the first plants used for fabric and food.

Origin of 'flaxen'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'flaxen' originates from the Old English word 'flax', referring to the plant from which linen is made.
  • Historically, 'flaxen' was used to describe the color of linen fibers processed from flax plants.

The word 'flaxen' originates from the Old English term 'flax,' which refers to the plant from which linen is made. Flax fibers are soft and pale in color, mirroring the light golden attributes sometimes observed in flaxen hair. The term has been used since the 14th century and was primarily associated with the natural colors of flax plants. Over time, 'flaxen' transitioned from referring solely to the color of the plant to being applied metaphorically to describe similar hues in hair and other objects. In literature, the use of 'flaxen' evokes an image of delicacy and purity, often symbolizing innocence or youthfulness. As the English language evolved, 'flaxen' became a descriptive term that conveys beauty and lightness, commonly appearing in poetry, art, and fashion to highlight the allure of lighter shades.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,764, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.