Nourished Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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nourished

[ˈnɔːrɪʃt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

physical health

Nourished refers to the state of being provided with the necessary nutrients for growth and health. It implies that a person or organism has received adequate food and nourishment to thrive.

Synonyms

fed, supported, sustained.

Examples of usage

  • A nourished child shows signs of healthy growth.
  • Plants that are well nourished bloom more vibrantly.
  • He felt well nourished after the wholesome meal.
  • Animals in the wild must find enough food to stay nourished.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Health

  • Eating a balanced diet is essential for physical nourishment, which helps our body function properly.
  • Mental nourishment can come from positive interactions, learning, and emotional support – it's not just about food.
  • Certain cultures have traditional foods that are considered particularly nourishing for specific health benefits.

Psychology

  • Studies show that feeling emotionally nourished can enhance overall well-being and life satisfaction.
  • Relationships and social connections can provide emotional nourishment that is just as crucial as physical nourishment.
  • The concept of self-care is about nourishing your mental and emotional health in addition to your body.

Literature

  • Poets often use the idea of nourishment metaphorically to describe growth in love, knowledge, and spirit.
  • In children's literature, stories about food often illustrate how sharing meals can lead to community and relationships, nourishing the heart.
  • Many classic stories feature characters who are nourished by experiences, not just physical food, such as learning or friendship.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Across various cultures, the concept of nourishment often extends to traditions and rituals surrounding food.
  • Food is often seen as a means of providing care, where a home-cooked meal symbolizes love and nurturing in families.
  • Different regions highlight specific foods which are believed to provide the best nourishment, influenced by both environment and culture.

Origin of 'nourished'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French 'norrir', meaning to feed or nurture.
  • In Latin, 'nutrire' means to feed, which is directly related to how we think about nourishing ourselves today.
  • The root connects to both food and care, showing that nourishment is about more than just eating.

The word 'nourished' originates from the Middle English word 'norisshen,' which means to rear or bring up. This, in turn, comes from the Old French 'norrir,' meaning to nourish, support, or sustain. The Latin root, 'nutrire,' translates to feed, nourish, or bring up. The development of the term reflects an evolution from primarily physical sustenance to encompass emotional or spiritual support as well. Over time, 'nourished' has been used in various contexts, emphasizing health and well-being, especially in relation to food and care.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,099, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.