Hewn: meaning, definitions and examples
🪓
hewn
[ hjuːn ]
shaping material
Hewn refers to the process of cutting or shaping wood, stone, or other materials with a tool or by hand. This term is commonly linked with traditional craftsmanship and is often associated with the creation of furniture, sculptures, and buildings. The technique is fundamental in woodworking and masonry, reflecting a skillful and deliberate approach to material creation. It implies not just cutting, but also the art of transforming a rough block into something functional or artistic.
Synonyms
carve, chisel, cut, fashion, shape
Examples of usage
- The craftsman hewn the logs into beams for the cabin.
- Ancient Egyptians hewn massive stones to build the pyramids.
- He carefully hewn the stone to create an intricate design.
- The artist hewn the marble into a beautiful statue.
Etymology
The word 'hewn' originates from the Old English term 'hywen', which means 'to cut'. It is a past participle of the verb 'hew', which can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic '*khawwijan', meaning 'to chop, cut'. Over the centuries, hewing has been an integral part of construction and craft, particularly in pre-industrial societies where manual techniques were the primary means of shaping materials. The term has maintained its relevance through modern times in various forms of art and craftsmanship, particularly in woodworking, stonemasonry, and sculpting. Hewn objects often carry a sense of authenticity and artistry, reflecting the labor and skill involved in their creation.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #17,054, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.
- ...
- 17051 disrespect
- 17052 feud
- 17053 shrouded
- 17054 hewn
- 17055 gaily
- 17056 tibial
- 17057 reunification
- ...