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Homing: meaning, definitions and examples

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homing

 

[ ˈhōmiŋ ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

navigation ability

Homing refers to the ability of certain animals, particularly birds, to return to their home or place of origin after being displaced. This incredible skill is often seen in migratory species that travel long distances. It is believed that homing is facilitated by various senses, including the use of the Earth's magnetic field and visual landmarks. Homing can also apply to technology, where devices are designed to return to a designated point or user.

Synonyms

navigation, return, tracking

Examples of usage

  • Doves often exhibit homing behavior when they return to their nests.
  • Scientists study homing pigeons to understand their navigation methods.
  • The homing ability of salmon is remarkable as they return to spawn in the same river where they were born.
Context #2 | Verb

to return home

To home means to navigate back to a specific location, typically one's home. This can be used in a variety of contexts, including animal behavior and technology. Animals such as birds and fish use their instincts and environmental cues to home successfully. In technology, devices like drones can be programmed to home back to their launch point.

Synonyms

navigate, retrace, return

Examples of usage

  • The dog managed to home back after getting lost.
  • The drone began to home in on its original location.
  • Cats often home using their keen senses to find their way back.

Translations

Translations of the word "homing" in other languages:

🇵🇹 navegação de volta

🇮🇳 घर वापसी

🇩🇪 Heimkehr

🇮🇩 pulang

🇺🇦 повернення

🇵🇱 powrót

🇯🇵 帰巣性

🇫🇷 retour

🇪🇸 regreso

🇹🇷 eve dönüş

🇰🇷 귀환

🇸🇦 العودة إلى المنزل

🇨🇿 návrat

🇸🇰 návrat

🇨🇳 归巢

🇸🇮 povratek

🇮🇸 heimkoma

🇰🇿 үйге оралу

🇬🇪 მობრუნება

🇦🇿 evə qayıtma

🇲🇽 regreso

Etymology

The term 'homing' originates from the mid-19th century, derived from the word 'home.' It initially described the instinctual ability of certain animals to return to their nests or breeding areas. The word 'home' has Old English roots, coming from 'hām,' which means a dwelling or place of origin. The concept expanded over the years to include not just biological phenomena but also technological applications, such as homing missiles and drones, which are designed to navigate back to their starting point. This evolution highlights a shift in understanding from purely biological instincts to incorporating human ingenuity and engineering solutions. 'Homing' has since become a versatile term, used in various contexts relating to navigation and returning to a starting point.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,772, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.