Hovered Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🕊️
Add to dictionary

hovered

[ˈhʌvərd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

motion, position

The term 'hovered' refers to the action of remaining in one place in the air or being suspended over a particular area without moving to the ground or away. This word can describe a variety of situations, such as a bird in flight, a drone above a target, or even a person who is indecisive about making a choice. The action often conveys a sense of instability or an inability to settle down in a particular position or decision. In a more abstract sense, it can also refer to lingering in someone's thoughts or presence.

Synonyms

floated, glided, levitated, winged.

Examples of usage

  • The drone hovered above the field.
  • A hummingbird hovered near the flowers.
  • She hovered in the doorway, unsure whether to enter.
  • The cursor hovered over the link on the screen.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Hovering is seen in many insects, notably dragonflies and bees, which can remain in a fixed position while beating their wings rapidly.
  • Drones use hovering to capture steady video footage, showcasing how technology mimics nature's ability.
  • In physics, hovering requires a perfect balance of forces, illustrating concepts like lift and gravity.

Pop Culture

  • Hoverboards, a modern gadget, gained popularity in films and have inspired real-life versions for fun and transport.
  • In video games, characters often hover to dodge attacks or reach higher places, reflecting agility and power.
  • Songs and poetry use the imagery of hovering to convey feelings of uncertainty or suspension in time.

Art

  • Artistic concepts often include the idea of hovering, as seen in paintings where objects seem to float in surreal landscapes.
  • In installations, artists create pieces where viewers feel a sense of hovering, inviting reflection and wonder.
  • The technique of layering in visual arts can make elements appear as if they are hovering above the canvas.

Technology

  • The term has spread into tech language, as hovering with a cursor over an icon reveals information without clicking.
  • Virtual reality technologies often create experiences where users can 'hover' over virtual objects in space.
  • In aviation, drones are designed specifically for hovering, allowing for precise control in various environments.

Origin of 'hovered'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'hover' comes from the Old French word 'oveir', meaning 'to sway back and forth'.
  • The term has been used since the 14th century, originally referring to a person who sways in a dance.
  • The addition of '-ed' makes it a past form, meaning it already happened.

The word 'hover' traces its origins to the late Middle English 'hoveren,' which is derived from the Old French 'uver,' meaning to move back and forth, and the Middle Dutch 'huveren.' Initially, it was used in the context of physical movement, specifically applied to the actions of birds and floating objects. The concept of hovering was prevalent in descriptions of flight before evolving into the more abstract uses we see today, including digital contexts such as computer interfaces where a cursor hovers over an icon. As technology progressed, so did the use of the term, adapting to articulate the characteristics of various technologies like drones and virtual reality applications. 'Hovered' as a past tense has been consistently used since the 16th century, gaining specific semantic nuances over time.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,757, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.