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Hoary Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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hoary

[หˆhษ”หri ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

appearance, age

Hoary describes something that is grayish-white, often associated with age, particularly when referring to hair. It can also refer to something that is ancient or old, conveying a sense of wisdom or venerable quality.

Synonyms

aged, ancient, gray, venerable.

Examples of usage

  • The hoary old tree stood at the edge of the forest.
  • She had a hoary mane of hair that spoke of her many years.
  • The hoary traditions of the village were passed down through generations.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'hoary'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'hoary' originates from the Old English 'har', which means gray or white. This term has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word 'harwaz', which also means gray or whitish. Over time, 'hoary' evolved to describe not only the color of hair but also something that has existed for a long time, suggesting not just age but the wisdom and venerability that comes with it. In literature, 'hoary' is often used to evoke imagery of ancient and time-worn aspects of nature or history, indicating a connection between age and knowledge.

Word Frequency Rank

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