Furled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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furled
[fɜrld ]
Definition
physical action
Furled refers to the action of rolling up or folding something tightly, often used in the context of sails, flags, or banners. It implies that the object is secured in a compact form, often to protect it or prepare it for storage.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He furled the flag before the storm.
- She furled the map after checking the route.
- The sailor furled the sail to prevent it from flapping in the wind.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In poetry and prose, the image of furled sails often symbolizes readiness for a journey or the end of a chapter.
- Authors may use 'furled' to describe emotions or states of being, indicating something hidden or not yet revealed.
- Furled flags in literature can represent national pride or mourning, depending on the context.
Art
- Many painters depict furled sails to convey tranquility and a pause in activity, adding to the serenity of maritime scenes.
- Sculptures sometimes feature elements that are furled, emphasizing movement and tension in a static form.
- Furling objects in art often represent moments of transition or preparation.
Nature
- Plants like ferns have leaves that 'furl' as they grow, showcasing a natural form of unfolding movement.
- The process of furled leaves in botany can indicate stages of growth, where protective covers roll up to facilitate development.
- In animals, some species furled their appendages or tails for protection when threatened.
Education
- In educational settings, teachers may use the metaphor of furled ideas to describe concepts that need to be explored further.
- The act of furled notes or papers can also symbolize organization and preparation for effective studying.
- Furled maps, often used in geography lessons, can express the idea of discovering new places when unrolled.
Origin of 'furled'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'furled' comes from the Old French word 'fouler', meaning 'to press, to roll'.
- It relates to various languages; in Latin, it connects with 'follere', which means 'to tread or stamp'.
- The transformation into its current form has been used in nautical terms since at least the 17th century.
The word 'furled' comes from the Middle English word 'furle', which means to fold or roll up. It is derived from the Old French term 'furlier', meaning to roll or gather, and further traces back to the Latin 'follere', which means to blow or to fill with air. The term was originally associated with sails and flags that needed to be secured from strong winds. Over time, its usage expanded to include any instances where items are rolled or folded tightly. The idea of protection from the elements or securing objects has remained central to its meaning from its historical roots.