Hurtling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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hurtling

[หˆhษœหrtlษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

motion, speed

Hurtling refers to the act of moving rapidly or forcefully, typically in a way that is uncontrolled or turbulent. The term is often used to describe something that is propelled with great speed, such as a vehicle, object, or even a person in an athletic context. When something is hurtling, it usually implies a sense of urgency or danger due to its swift movement. This word encapsulates the dynamism and intensity of fast motion, often accompanied by a feeling of thrill or peril.

Synonyms

bolting, flying, rushing, speeding.

Examples of usage

  • The car was hurtling down the highway.
  • He was hurtling through the air after jumping off the ramp.
  • The meteor was hurtling toward Earth.
  • Children were hurtling down the slide at the playground.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Physics

  • The speed at which an object moves through space can be described with the term 'hurtling', particularly in reference to falling or free-falling objects.
  • In physics, an object that is hurtling might experience acceleration due to gravity, especially in the case of a falling rock or an object thrown from a height.
  • Air resistance affects objects that are hurtling, which can slow them down or change their trajectory.

Pop Culture

  • In many action movies, characters often leap or hurtle through the air during thrilling stunts.
  • Video games often depict characters hurtling through levels at high speeds, contributing to adrenaline-pumping gameplay.
  • Hurtling is commonly used in sports commentary, especially for fast-paced games like soccer or basketball, to describe players making fast movements.

Literature

  • Authors use 'hurtling' to create vivid imagery, evoking speed and excitement in action scenes.
  • Poets often employ the word to convey powerful emotions, suggesting feelings that are overwhelming and unstoppable.
  • In storytelling, characters might be described as hurtling towards a fate, emphasizing urgency and tension.

Psychology

  • The sensation of hurtling can evoke feelings of fear or thrill, often linked to human perceptions of speed and danger.
  • Researchers found that an individualโ€™s perception of speed can be influenced by their emotional state โ€“ excitement can heighten the feeling of hurtling.
  • In psychological terms, the concept of 'hurtling' can symbolize life's unpredictable nature, especially during stressful changes or challenges.

Origin of 'hurtling'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'hurtling' comes from the Old English 'hyrtian,' which means to throw or cast.
  • It evolved over time and began to indicate a quick or forceful movement, distinguishing it from just 'moving.'
  • Initially, it was used mostly in literary contexts before making its way into everyday language.

The word 'hurtling' originates from the Old English word 'hyrtan,' meaning to throw or to push away. Over time, it evolved into the Middle English term 'hurtle,' which conveyed a similar essence of rapid movement or collision. In contemporary usage, 'hurtling' embodies the sense of not just moving fast but doing so in a manner that suggests a lack of control or direction. The incorporation of this term into modern English reflects our fascination with speed, especially in contexts like sports, transportation, and even the natural phenomena of celestial bodies. The growing popularity of extreme sports and high-speed activities in recent decades has further entrenched the term in our language, illustrating the dynamic interplay between language evolution and cultural trends.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,621, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.