Harnessing: meaning, definitions and examples

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harnessing

 

[ ˈhɑːrnɪsɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

energy use

Harnessing refers to the act of utilizing or controlling something, often for a practical purpose. It can involve capturing energy from natural sources, such as wind or water, and converting it into usable power. This process can also apply to managing resources to maximize efficiency or effectiveness. In broader terms, harnessing can refer to taking advantage of skills, knowledge, or potential in various fields.

Synonyms

controlling, exploiting, leveraging, utilizing

Examples of usage

  • Harnessing solar energy can lead to sustainable power solutions.
  • Scientists are harnessing data to improve climate models.
  • Farmers are harnessing new techniques to increase crop yield.

Translations

Translations of the word "harnessing" in other languages:

🇵🇹 aproveitamento

🇮🇳 संपर्क करना

🇩🇪 Nutzung

🇮🇩 memanfaatkan

🇺🇦 використання

🇵🇱 wykorzystywanie

🇯🇵 活用する

🇫🇷 exploitation

🇪🇸 aprovechamiento

🇹🇷 kullanma

🇰🇷 활용

🇸🇦 استغلال

🇨🇿 využívání

🇸🇰 využívanie

🇨🇳 利用

🇸🇮 izkoriščanje

🇮🇸 nýta

🇰🇿 пайдалану

🇬🇪 გამოყენება

🇦🇿 istifadə etmə

🇲🇽 aprovechamiento

Etymology

The word 'harness' originated from the Middle English term 'harnes,' which is derived from the Old French 'harnais.' This term initially referred to a set of straps or gear used for controlling horses, particularly in the context of managing their movement for transportation and work. Over time, its meaning expanded to encompass the broader concept of controlling and utilizing elements, including energy and resources. The transition from a physical restraining tool for animals to a metaphorical application in various fields—such as technology, environment, and personal development—illustrates how language evolves with cultural and technological changes. Today, harnessing is a common term in discussions about renewable energy and efficient resource management.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,096, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.