Narrowable: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word combines 'narrow' (from Old English 'nearu') meaning 'not wide' with the suffix '-able', indicating capability.
• First appeared in written texts around the late 17th century, illustrating the evolution of language and expressions about size.
• Related terms include 'narrowness' and 'narrowly', showing varied uses in the English language.

Science

• In physics, concepts like 'narrowable' can relate to forces acting on materials, affecting how they can be compressed or shaped.
• Biologists might describe cell walls as narrowable when discussing how they can change shape during growth or division.
• In technology, 'narrowable' can refer to data streams that can be reduced to fit within specific bandwidths.

Art and Design

• In graphic design, layouts can often be 'narrowable' to emphasize particular elements or improve readability.
• Fashion designers might create 'narrowable' silhouettes to enhance the appearance of body shapes in their collections.
• Architecture also uses 'narrowable' spaces creatively to add intrigue and functionality to buildings.

Psychology

• The concept of narrowing thoughts and focus can be tied to mindfulness techniques, helping to improve mental clarity.
• Cognitive processes might be described as 'narrowable' when focusing attention on a single task, increasing efficiency.
• In decision-making, narrowing options can lead to better outcomes, as it reduces overwhelm and enhances clarity.

Technology

• In software design, user interfaces often need 'narrowable' options for adapting to different screen sizes.
• Data structures in programming can be made narrowable to optimize memory and improve processing speeds.
• Websites utilize 'narrowable' layouts to create responsive designs that adapt to various devices.