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Glean Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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glean

[ɡliːn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

gather information

To glean means to collect information or material bit by bit. It is used often in the context of gathering knowledge or insights from various sources. The term is commonly associated with the act of gathering leftover crops from fields after the main harvest. Gleaning can also refer to the careful extraction of valuable details from a larger body of information.

Synonyms

acquire, collect, extract, gather.

Examples of usage

  • After the lecture, she gleaned several important insights.
  • The journalist gleaned details from various interviews.
  • He spent hours gleaning data from the reports.

Translations

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

Origin of 'glean'

The word 'glean' originates from the Old French word 'glener,' which means 'to collect or gather' and has roots in the Latin word 'glennare,' meaning 'to gather crops.' The term was adopted into Middle English in the 14th century and has maintained its agricultural connotations. Initially, gleaning referred to the practice of gathering leftover grain or produce from fields after the harvest. Over time, its usage has evolved and expanded to include the act of collecting information or insights in various contexts. Gleaning, in a broader sense, symbolizes the careful and diligent effort to extract value from what may initially appear to be insignificant or overlooked. This historical and metaphorical significance underscores the importance of patience and meticulousness in learning and discovery.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,666, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.