Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Paling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🪵
Add to dictionary

paling

[ˈpeɪlɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

fence

A paling is a fence made from pointed wooden or metal posts.

Synonyms

enclosure, fence, railing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
paling

Typically used to describe a simple, often wooden structure surrounding a garden or yard. It usually signifies a basic, common type of fencing.

  • The small garden was surrounded by a paling.
  • They built a paling to keep the rabbits out of the vegetable patch.
fence

A general term for any structure used to divide or protect areas of land. It can be used in both formal and informal settings and can refer to various materials and designs.

  • They put up a fence to keep the dog in the yard.
  • The garden was enclosed by a charming white fence.
enclosure

Refers to a contained area, often surrounded by a barrier, wall, or fence. This word can be used in formal or technical contexts, especially when talking about bordered land or a specific area designated for animals, plants, or activities.

  • The zoo had a large enclosure for the lions.
  • He kept the equipment in a secure enclosure.

Examples of usage

  • The old farmhouse was surrounded by a paling to keep the animals in.
  • The garden was enclosed by a white paling.
Context #2 | Noun

slats

Paling can also refer to a series of slats or strips of wood used as a covering or screening.

Synonyms

laths, slats, strips.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
paling

Typically found in contexts related to fencing or barriers, often made of wood.

  • The garden was enclosed by a wooden paling.
  • She repaired the broken paling in the backyard fence.
slats

Commonly used to describe flat, narrow pieces of wood or metal, usually in furniture, blinds, or as parts of structures.

  • The bed frame consisted of wooden slats for support.
  • I adjusted the window blinds by tilting the slats.
strips

Used in a broader sense to describe long, narrow pieces of material, not limited to wood; can also be used in contexts like clothing or labels.

  • They cut the fabric into strips for sewing.
  • He removed the strips of tape from the package.
laths

Often used in construction, especially when creating a framework for plaster, tiles, or shingles.

  • The builder nailed laths for the new roof.
  • They used laths to support the plaster on the walls.

Examples of usage

  • The paling on the porch provided some privacy.
  • She used paling to create a rustic look for her interior walls.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Art and Aesthetics

  • In painting, artists often use 'paling' techniques to create depth, showing how colors can change with light and shadow.
  • Paling is frequently used in artworks to convey mood; for example, lighter hues may evoke calmness or tranquility.
  • The technique of softening edges can contribute to a feeling of fading beauty, making the subject more poignant.

Psychology

  • The idea of paleness often relates to emotions, such as fear or shock, causing someone's face to lose color.
  • Paling in stages of anger or embarrassment can be a psychological response, showing how emotions manifest physically.
  • Studies suggest that changes in skin tone can influence perceptions, as paler skin may be associated with fragility or delicacy.

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, paleness can symbolize purity or innocence, contrasting with vibrant colors that evoke energy and life.
  • Fashion trends often shift toward paler tones during certain seasons, reflecting cultural preferences and social attitudes toward beauty.
  • Historical literature sometimes uses pale imagery to describe characters or settings, signaling a mood or thematic undertone.

Nature

  • Plants can appear to pale during droughts, signaling stress, which is a survival response to conserve resources.
  • Some animals use color changes, including paling, as a defense mechanism to blend into their surroundings and avoid predators.
  • Seasonal changes cause various natural elements, like leaves, to turn pale, especially during autumn when they lose chlorophyll.

Origin of 'paling'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'paling' comes from the Old English 'palinc', which means to grow pale or wan.
  • It is related to the concept of loss of brightness or vibrancy, often used to describe skin tones or colors.
  • The term has been in use since the 14th century, evolving to include uses in both physical and emotional descriptions.

The word 'paling' originated in Middle English from the Old French word 'pal'; it has been used since the 14th century to refer to a fence or barrier made of pointed posts. Over time, its usage expanded to include slats or strips of wood for covering or screening purposes.

See also: impale, pale, paleness, paler.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,982, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.