Limned: meaning, definitions and examples

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limned

 

[ lɪmnd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

artistic representation

To limn means to depict or represent something in a drawing or painting, often emphasizing its outlines. The term can also refer to the act of describing or portraying something in a detailed manner. In literature, it can involve vividly illustrating a scene or idea through descriptive language. The word is derived from the use of fine lines or highlights to enhance the definition of an image.

Synonyms

depict, describe, illustrate, outline

Examples of usage

  • The artist limned the serene landscape with exquisite detail.
  • She limned her feelings about the loss in her latest poem.
  • His sketches limned the essence of the city life.
  • The author limned the protagonist's struggles vividly.

Translations

Translations of the word "limned" in other languages:

🇵🇹 contornado

🇮🇳 रेखांकित

🇩🇪 umrissen

🇮🇩 digambarkan

🇺🇦 обрисований

🇵🇱 zarysowany

🇯🇵 輪郭を描いた

🇫🇷 délimité

🇪🇸 contornado

🇹🇷 çizilmiş

🇰🇷 윤곽을 그린

🇸🇦 محدد

🇨🇿 obrysovaný

🇸🇰 obkreslený

🇨🇳 勾勒的

🇸🇮 obrisan

🇮🇸 teiknað

🇰🇿 суреттелген

🇬🇪 ხაზი გავლილი

🇦🇿 xətt çəkilmiş

🇲🇽 contornado

Word origin

The word 'limn' derives from the Latin verb 'liminare', meaning 'to illuminate' or 'to light up'. It entered the English language in the 15th century, initially being used in the context of painting and illumination, particularly in reference to the delicate outlining of figures or scenes. Over time, its usage expanded to include a broader range of artistic and literary descriptions. The evolution of the word reflects the cultural significance of visual and literary arts throughout history, where clear depiction and detailed representation of subjects have been valued in society.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,483, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.