Hoary: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'hoary' comes from the Old English word 'har', which means gray or white, often referring to hair.
• Ancient texts from the 14th century used 'hoary' to describe things aged with wisdom, like wise elders.
• In literature, it often appears in descriptions of nature, reflecting the frostiness or age of a landscape.

Literature

• In Shakespeare's works, 'hoary' is used to depict aged characters, emphasizing their wisdom and experience.
• The term is found in poetry, where it paints vivid imagery of winter scenes and the beauty of aging nature.
• Classical literature often links 'hoary' with themes of nostalgia and the passage of time.

Biology

• In botany, 'hoary' can describe plants with a grayish-white covering, often indicating old age or maturity.
• Some trees are referred to as 'hoary' when they show signs of age, such as thick bark or lichens growing on them.
• The hoary bat, known for its frosted fur, gets its name from the same principle of age and color.

Cultural References

• 'Hoary' figures regularly appear in folklore, often as wise old men or mythical creatures guiding the young.
• In various cultures, the term symbolizes not just age but also respect and reverence for the elderly.
• The phrase 'hoary old chestnut' describes an overused idea or joke, showing how repetition can equate to age.

Psychology

• Research shows that older adults are often associated with wisdom due to their life experiences, linking to the connotation of 'hoary.'
• Ageism can lead to negative stereotypes about older individuals, despite the positive attributes often associated with being 'hoary.'
• Happy memories are often tied to 'hoary' images of family, suggesting a cultural admiration for the elderly.

With rank #19,716, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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• 19713 reminiscence
• 19714 spectre
• 19715 drumming
• 19716 hoary
• 19717 enjoining
• 19718 incompletely
• 19719 loathing
• ...