Millstone: meaning, definitions and examples
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millstone
[ˈmɪlˌstoʊn ]
Definitions
literal use
A millstone is a large, circular stone used in a mill for grinding grain. Traditionally, it is part of a pair of stones used to prepare flour from wheat or other grains. The upper stone rotates over the stationary lower stone and crushes the grain between them. Millstones are made from durable materials such as granite, which can withstand the pressure and wear from prolonged use. They have played an essential role in agriculture by helping societies produce flour for bread and other food products.
Synonyms
grinding stone, millwheel.
Examples of usage
- The millstone turned slowly, grinding the wheat into flour.
- In the museum, we saw an ancient millstone used centuries ago.
- He replaced the worn-out millstone with a new one.
- The sound of the millstone was soothing as it worked.
- Farmers used the millstone to produce flour for their families.
metaphorical use
Metaphorically, a millstone refers to a heavy burden or a source of great distress. It suggests a constraint that weighs down one's ability to progress or achieve freedom. The phrase 'a millstone around one's neck' expresses a feeling of being encumbered by an obligation or difficult situation. This use of the term grew from the image of being carried down by the weight of a millstone, creating a sense of vulnerability and struggle.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He felt the millstone of debt weighing him down.
- The responsibilities of the job became a millstone for her career.
- Trying to handle both tasks felt like carrying a millstone.
- The failed project was a millstone around their reputation.
- He described his old commitments as a millstone.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Old English 'mylenstan', where 'mylen' means mill and 'stan' means stone.
- Similar words appear in other languages, showing its long history in agriculture and food production.
Historical Significance
- Millstones have been used for thousands of years, dating back to ancient civilizations for grinding grain.
- Different cultures developed unique designs for millstones based on their agricultural needs and local materials.
Cultural References
- In literature, a 'millstone' often symbolizes a heavy burden or a weight of responsibility.
- The phrase 'millstone around one's neck' refers to something that makes a person's life difficult or burdensome.
Science and Technology
- Millstones are typically made from durable materials like granite or lava rock, which can withstand heavy pressure during grinding.
- The design of millstones, including their grooves, affects the efficiency of flour production and the texture of the final product.
Folklore
- In some cultures, millstones are believed to have protective qualities and are associated with good fortune in harvests.
- Local legends sometimes tell of mythical creatures or spirits residing near old mills and millstones, emphasizing their importance in community life.
Translations
Translations of the word "millstone" in other languages:
🇵🇹 moagem
🇮🇳 चक्की का पत्थर
🇩🇪 Mahlstein
🇮🇩 batu penggiling
🇺🇦 жорнова
🇵🇱 kamień młyński
🇯🇵 石臼
🇫🇷 meule
🇪🇸 molete
🇹🇷 değirmen taşı
🇰🇷 맷돌
🇸🇦 حجر الطاحونة
🇨🇿 mlýnský kámen
🇸🇰 mlynský kameň
🇨🇳 磨石
🇸🇮 mletni kamen
🇮🇸 mjölssteinn
🇰🇿 ұнтағыш тас
🇬🇪 ქვასახურავი
🇦🇿 dəyirman daşı
🇲🇽 piedra de molino