Gloaming Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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gloaming
[ˈɡloʊ.mɪŋ ]
Definition
time of day
Gloaming refers to the time of day immediately following sunset when the sky is partially illuminated, often leading to twilight. It is a period where the light fading creates a distinctive and often atmospheric quality to the surroundings.
Synonyms
dusk, evening, nightfall, twilight.
Examples of usage
- The forest looked magical in the gloaming.
- We often took walks during the gloaming, enjoying the cool evening air.
- Photographers love capturing the colors of the gloaming.
- The gloaming brings a sense of calm after a busy day.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- The term appears frequently in romantic poetry, symbolizing a dreamy or melancholic atmosphere.
- Writers like Robert Louis Stevenson used 'gloaming' to evoke feelings of nostalgia and the passage of time.
- In folklore, 'gloaming' is often associated with magical or supernatural occurrences, as the veil between worlds thins.
Nature
- Gloaming marks a transitional period when certain animals become active, such as deer and owls, which is key in their hunting habits.
- This time is crucial for certain plants as the cooler temperatures allow for dew formation, benefiting their growth.
- Meteorologically, it's during this period that the sky can display vibrant colors, influenced by the angle of the sun and atmospheric conditions.
Cultural Significance
- Many cultures celebrate twilight with festivals, emphasizing renewal and natural beauty.
- In Japanese culture, the period just after sunset is cherished for its tranquil beauty, often depicted in poetry and art.
- Gloaming is often featured as a metaphor in various cultures for transition, reflection, and the coming of change.
Psychological Effects
- The colors and atmosphere of gloaming can evoke feelings of calmness and tranquility, often leading to contemplation.
- Studies suggest that mild light levels at this time can positively affect human mood and emotional well-being.
- In mindfulness practices, this period is often recommended for reflection and meditation, leveraging its serene environment.
Origin of 'gloaming'
Main points about word origin
- This word comes from the Old English term 'glōm' meaning twilight or dusk.
- It has roots in Middle English as 'gloaming' and was commonly used in Scots, especially in poetry.
- The term connects with similar words in other languages, like 'gloire' in French, signifying beauty associated with the dimming of light.
The word 'gloaming' originates from the Old English term 'glōmung' which means 'twilight' or 'gloaming'. This term itself comes from the earlier Germanic roots, reflecting a time of light that is gradually dimming. The concept of gloaming has been a part of human experience for centuries, often evoking feelings of nostalgia and reflection. Old texts and poems from the English language frequently reference gloaming as a time for contemplation and transition, embodying both a literal dimming of light and a metaphorical shift in daily life. As the industrial age progressed, the use of such poetic terms saw some decline but has since seen a resurgence in modern literature, art, and music, invoking the serene imagery associated with this gentle fading of day into night.