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Pall Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pall

[pɔːl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

funeral

a cloth spread over a coffin, hearse, or tomb.

Synonyms

funeral cloth, funeral covering.

Examples of usage

  • The pall was embroidered with delicate flowers.
  • The pall was draped over the casket during the funeral service.
Context #2 | Verb

to become less intense

become less intense or severe.

Synonyms

diminish, fade, weaken.

Examples of usage

  • The excitement began to pall after a few hours.
  • The initial enthusiasm for the project soon palled.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In literature, a 'pall' often symbolizes gloom, suffering, or a heavy atmosphere in stories, enhancing the emotional tone.
  • Authors like Edgar Allan Poe utilized the concept of a pall to emphasize themes of death and despair in their works.
  • The phrase 'pall of darkness' is frequently used in poetry to describe an overwhelming shadow or loss of hope.

Cultural Significance

  • Palls are commonly associated with funerals and memorials, symbolizing respect for the dead and the somberness of loss.
  • In various cultures, a pall is used to drape over caskets to signify mourning and to honor the deceased.
  • In some traditions, a 'pallbearer' is someone who carries the coffin, encapsulating the heaviness of the occasion.

Psychology

  • The appearance of a pall in social settings can affect collective moods, often leading to feelings of sadness or melancholy.
  • Psychologically, the term 'pall' can be used metaphorically to describe a tense atmosphere that weighs on individuals or groups.
  • Research indicates that a somber environment, likened to a pall, can impact emotional responses and decision-making.

Origin of 'pall'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'pall' comes from the Latin word 'palla', meaning 'a cloak or covering', reflecting its historical use.
  • It has evolved in English since the 14th century and originally referred to a cloth used in religious ceremonies.
  • In medieval times, the 'pall' was often used to symbolize the weight of death or mourning.

The word 'pall' has Old English origins, coming from the Latin word 'pallium' meaning 'cloak'. Over time, the word evolved to have various meanings including a cloth spread over a coffin or becoming less intense. The use of 'pall' in the context of a funeral covering dates back to the 13th century.

See also: pallor.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,565, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.