Gird Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ก๏ธ
gird
[gษrd ]
Definition
formal usage
To gird means to encircle or bind with a belt or band. It can also refer to preparing oneself for action or a challenge, often suggesting a sense of readiness or determination. This action can be both literal, as in girding one's loins, and metaphorical, like girding oneself for an upcoming task. Girding can imply an act of strengthening one's resolve or determination in the face of adversity.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He girded his waist with a leather belt.
- She girded herself for the challenging presentation.
- The warrior girded his sword before the battle.
- They must gird their minds for the difficult conversations ahead.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- In literature, the phrase 'gird your loins' is often used to symbolize preparing for a challenge or confrontation.
- Shakespeare made use of 'gird' in many of his works, using it to convey readiness for battle or tough times.
- The term appears in ancient texts, indicating its long-standing significance in discussions of warfare and preparation.
Cultural References
- In various cultures, the act of girding often symbolizes strength and readiness, seen in warrior traditions where armor was donned.
- Military customs often promote phrases akin to 'girding oneself' to instill a sense of duty and preparedness among soldiers.
- Many martial arts emphasize the concept of girding in their training, emphasizing mental and physical readiness.
Philosophy
- Philosophical texts sometimes use the concept of girding to discuss mental preparedness for life's challenges.
- Preparation, as in 'girding oneself', is often seen as a fundamental aspect of courage and facing the unknown.
- In existential philosophy, the need to gird oneself reflects the human condition of confronting uncertainties head-on.
Origin of 'gird'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old English 'gyrdan,' meaning to encircle or bind.
- It has roots in the Proto-Germanic '*girdล,' which relates to fitting tightly around something.
- Initially, it was often used in a physical context, describing the act of fastening something around oneself.
The word 'gird' originates from the Old English 'gyrdan', which means 'to encircle' or 'to bind'. The term has Germanic roots and is related to the Dutch word 'girden' and the German 'gรผrten', both of which convey a similar meaning of binding or encircling. Throughout history, 'gird' has been commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts, often associated with preparing oneself for a task or challenge. The phrase 'gird up one's loins', a biblical reference, further solidified its metaphorical use in the English language, symbolizing the readiness to face trials or difficulties. Over time, this verb has maintained its relevancy in literature and everyday speech, indicating both physical girding and mental preparation.