Hairbreadth Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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hairbreadth
[ˈhɛərˌbrɛdθ ]
Definition
very small distance
Hairbreadth refers to an extremely narrow margin or degree, often indicating something that is just barely achieved or avoided. The term is often used to express a situation in which something is very nearly failed or narrowly escaped.
Synonyms
close call, narrow margin, slim chance.
Examples of usage
- He won the race by a hairbreadth.
- The difference in their scores was just a hairbreadth.
- She escaped the accident by a hairbreadth.
- The project succeeded by a hairbreadth.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Usage
- In olden times, people often used hairbreadth to describe close calls in battles, where survival could hinge on a tiny margin.
- Famous literature, such as Shakespeare's works, includes references to hairbreadth to convey narrow escapes or fine distinctions.
Science
- In physics, measurements on a microscopic scale can be compared to a hair’s breadth, emphasizing how precise scientific instruments can measure incredibly small distances.
- The average human hair has a diameter of about 0.063 to 0.090 millimeters, giving context to the term's meaning.
Psychology
- The idea of being a hairbreadth away from danger can evoke strong feelings, tying into the psychological concept of risk perception.
- Cognitive biases like 'near miss' can make people overestimate the chances of narrowly escaping negative outcomes, often compared to hairbreadth distances.
Pop Culture
- In film and media, characters often find themselves in situations where they escape by a hairbreadth, adding tension and drama to the story.
- The phrase features in various idioms and expressions, enhancing language by providing a vivid image of fine margins in everyday life.
Origin of 'hairbreadth'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'hairbreadth' combines 'hair,' which refers to the thin strands that grow on our heads and bodies, with 'breadth,' which means width or distance.
- It has been used since the 15th century, illustrating how people have spoken about small measurements for centuries.
The word 'hairbreadth' originates from the Old English 'hǣr' meaning 'hair' and 'breadth', which refers to the width or extent of something. It literally conveys the idea of the thinness of a hair, symbolizing a very fine distance or a narrow margin. The term has been in use in the English language since around the 16th century, often metaphorically to describe situations that are exceptionally close or precarious. The figurative use of 'hairbreadth' emphasizes the very thin line between success and failure, highlighting the fragility and uncertainty in various contexts, such as in competitions, decisions, or escapes.