Glade: meaning, definitions and examples

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glade

[ɡleɪd ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

open space

A glade is an open space in a forest, often free of trees, where sunlight can reach the ground. Glades are usually covered with grass, wildflowers, and other vegetation.

Synonyms

clearing, meadow, opening.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
glade	A glade refers to an open space within a forest. It often has a serene and peaceful connotation and is used more in poetic or literary contexts. They settled for a picnic in a sunny glade.
clearing	Clearing is an open area in a forest where trees have been removed, either naturally or by human intervention. It is commonly used in everyday language. The cabin was located in a small clearing.
meadow	Meadow refers to a flat, grassy area, usually without trees, that can occur naturally or be maintained as a field for grazing. It often has a pastoral, rural connotation. Cows were grazing in the lush meadow.
opening	Opening refers to a general open space within a larger area, such as a forest, and is often used to describe a break in dense forestation. It can be used in both everyday and formal contexts. They walked for hours before they found an opening where they could rest.

Examples of usage

The hikers found a peaceful glade in the middle of the forest.
The deer often graze in the glade near the river.
We sat down in the glade to have a picnic.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Old English word 'glæd', meaning 'bright' or 'cheerful'.
In Middle English, 'glade' referred specifically to open spaces in woods, reflecting its natural characteristics.
It is related to the word 'gleam', conveying brightness and openness.

Nature

Glades serve as important habitats for various wildlife, providing food and shelter.
They are often found in temperate forests, where disturbances like fallen trees create openings.
Glades can support diverse ecosystems, with different plants thriving in the sunlight.

Literature

Glades appear frequently in poetry and literature as symbols of tranquility and natural beauty.
In fantasy tales, characters might discover hidden glades filled with magical creatures or treasures.
Authors often use glades to showcase moments of reflection and peace amidst chaos.

Botanical Importance

Many glades are home to unique plant species that depend on the sunny environment to thrive.
Conservation efforts often focus on protecting glades due to their rich biodiversity.
Some glades contain wildflowers that bloom only in these specific, sunlit areas, attracting pollinators.

Cultural Significance

In various cultures, glades have been considered sacred spaces for rituals and gatherings.
They are often features in ancient folklore as places where humans would encounter spirits or fairies.
In modern environmental movements, glades are celebrated as symbols of the balance between nature and human activity.

Translations

Translations of the word "glade" in other languages:

🇵🇹 clareira

🇮🇳 खुला मैदान

🇩🇪 Lichtung

🇮🇩 padang terbuka

🇺🇦 галявина

🇵🇱 polana

🇯🇵 空き地 (あきち)

🇫🇷 clairière

🇪🇸 claro

🇹🇷 açıklık

🇰🇷 빈터

🇸🇦 فسحة

🇨🇿 mýtina

🇸🇰 čistina

🇨🇳 空地 (kōngdì)

🇸🇮 jasa

🇮🇸 skógarglæða

🇰🇿 ашық алаңқай

🇬🇪 გზადაკეცილი

🇦🇿 açıq sahə

🇲🇽 claro

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,021, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

...
23018 specs
23019 incitement
23020 idiosyncrasies
23021 glade
23022 intricately
23023 sedate
23024 chuckling
...