Inured Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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inured

[ɪˈnjʊəd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

state of being

Inured refers to being accustomed to something, especially something unpleasant or difficult. It suggests a form of mental toughness or resilience developed through exposure to hardship or adversity.

Synonyms

accustomed, desensitized, habituated, toughened.

Examples of usage

  • He became inured to the hardships of life in the wilderness.
  • After years of practice, she was inured to the pressure of performing in front of large audiences.
  • The soldiers were inured to the sounds of battle.
  • She had become inured to the chilly weather after living there for a winter.

Translations

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Origin of 'inured'

The word 'inured' comes from the Latin word 'inurere', which means 'to harden' or 'to become accustomed to something by use.' This Latin term combines 'in-' (meaning 'in' or 'on') with 'urere' (meaning 'to burn' or 'to harden'). The term evolved through Old French before entering the English language in the 17th century. The essence of the word has shifted from simply meaning to subject to hardship to encapsulating the notion of preparing oneself mentally and emotionally to withstand adverse conditions. Over the centuries, 'inured' has typically been used in contexts where individuals or groups endure challenging life experiences that ultimately toughen or prepare them for similar situations.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,916, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.