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Homing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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homing

[ˈhōmiŋ ]

Definitions

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

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

Interesting Facts

Animal Behavior

  • Many birds, like homing pigeons, can navigate using the Earth's magnetic fields and the sun’s position.
  • Certain sea turtles can return to the same beach they were born on after traveling thousands of miles.
  • Some mammals, such as dogs, have an incredible sense of smell that helps them find their way home.

Technology

  • GPS devices are often used in modern navigation, mimicking the natural homing abilities found in animals.
  • Drones can be programmed with homing features, allowing them to return to a specified location autonomously.
  • Technology has enabled the development of smart home systems that can track and guide lost pets back home.

Psychology

  • Feeling 'homing' instincts may be connected to our emotional ties and landmarks that evoke memories and comfort.
  • The concept of 'place attachment' explains why people feel a strong emotional bond with their homes and neighborhoods.

Cultural References

  • The idea of homing has been a popular theme in literature, symbolizing belonging and the journey back to safety.
  • Films often depict characters using their 'homing' instincts to find friends or family in moments of crisis.

Origin of 'homing'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'homing' comes from the Old English word 'ham,' meaning home.
  • Originally used to describe pigeons trained to return to their nests, the term has broadened to include various methods of navigation.

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.