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Fluttered Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fluttered

[ˈflʌtərd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

movement action

Fluttered refers to a quick, light movement or flapping motion. It often describes the action of wings, such as birds or butterflies, where the movement is not just fast but also somewhat erratic. Additionally, fluttering can pertain to things moving lightly in the air, like leaves or fabric in the wind. It evokes a sense of delicacy and grace in its movement.

Synonyms

flapped, flittered, quivered, wavering.

Examples of usage

  • The butterflies fluttered from flower to flower.
  • She watched as the flags fluttered in the breeze.
  • The bird fluttered its wings before taking flight.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In many poems, fluttering is often described to convey feelings of freedom and delicacy, like in the works of Emily Dickinson.
  • Fluttering can symbolize change and transience in literature, representing fleeting moments or emotions.
  • Children's books often use fluttering as an action for characters, like fairies or birds, combining movement with whimsy.

Psychology

  • The act of fluttering is reminiscent of the nervous flutters we feel when excited or anxious, showing how emotions can influence physical movement.
  • Research shows that observing fluttering motions can have calming effects on people, similar to watching leaves rustle or birds move.
  • Fluttering movements can signal playfulness or approachability in social animals, fostering interaction and bonding.

Nature

  • Butterflies and birds are prime examples of animals that flutter, showcasing agility and grace in their movements.
  • Tree leaves flutter in the wind, creating soothing sounds and a sense of tranquility in nature.
  • Many insects, like bees and hummingbirds, exhibit fluttering motions while feeding on flowers, aiding in pollination.

Pop Culture

  • The term 'flutter' pops up in songs and movies, often describing feelings of love, excitement, or joy.
  • In animation, fluttering is frequently used to show characters in a light, carefree state, enhancing their charm.
  • Popular dance styles sometimes incorporate fluttering movements, representing freedom and expressiveness.

Origin of 'fluttered'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Old English 'flutrian,' which means 'to float or fly lightly.'
  • In Middle English, it evolved into 'flutren,' and by the 15th century, it became the term we use today.
  • It shares roots with words like 'flap' and 'fluttering,' emphasizing light and quick motion.

The word 'flutter' has its roots in Middle English, derived from the Old English term 'flutorian,' which means to flap the wings or to move quickly. The transition from the Old English 'flutorian' to the modern 'flutter' illustrates a linguistic evolution that preserves the original sense related to light, swift movements. As the English language evolved, so did its rich vocabulary, leading to the adoption of 'fluttered' as the past tense form, which conveys an action that occurred previously. The imagery associated with 'flutter' is often connected to the natural world, particularly the motions of birds and insects, making it a poetic and evocative term that reflects both beauty and fragility.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,485, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.