Pastorally: meaning, definitions and examples
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pastorally
[ ˌpæsˈtɔːr.əl.i ]
in a rural manner
The term 'pastorally' refers to something that is related to or characteristic of pastoral life, typically involving the care of animals and the cultivation of the land. It often evokes images of serene countryside settings, where the lifestyle focuses on the grazing of livestock and harmonious living with nature.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The valley was pastorally beautiful, with sheep grazing peacefully.
- She spoke pastorally about her childhood on the farm.
- The artist captured the scene pastorally, depicting rolling hills and grazing cattle.
Etymology
The word 'pastorally' is derived from the Middle English term 'pastoral', which in turn originates from the Latin word 'pastoralis', meaning 'of or relating to shepherds'. The Latin root 'pastor' means 'shepherd', reflecting the connection between pastoral life and the care of livestock, particularly sheep. This connection dates back to ancient agrarian societies where shepherding was a common profession, significant for food production and community sustenance. Over time, 'pastoral' evolved to refer more broadly to rural life and idyllic countryside settings, which inspired much literature and art throughout the ages. 'Pastorally', as an adverb, captures this essence by describing actions or settings that invoke the peacefulness and simplicity associated with rural living.