Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Peered Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”
Add to dictionary

peered

[pษชrd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

looking closely

To peer means to look closely or intently at something, often because it is difficult to see or is not clear. This action typically involves squinting or leaning forward in an effort to improve one's vision. The term might also imply a sense of curiosity or interest, suggesting that the person is trying to observe something specific. Peering is commonly associated with trying to focus oneโ€™s vision in low visibility conditions, such as in dim light, fog, or from a distance.

Synonyms

gaze, glimpse, squint, stare.

Examples of usage

  • She peered through the foggy window.
  • He peered at the map, trying to find his way.
  • The children peered into the dark cave.
  • She peered closely at the painting to see its details.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Research shows that curiosity can enhance learning. When individuals peer at new things, they engage more deeply with their surroundings.
  • Peering or scrutinizing can lead to greater problem-solving skills, as it encourages looking for details that might otherwise be missed.

Literature

  • Many authors use the act of peering to create suspense, as characters look into the unknown, stimulating readers' imaginations.
  • Notable works often describe characters peering out into dark woods or over cliffs, symbolizing their search for truth or discovery.

Pop Culture

  • In mystery films and books, characters often peer through windows or shadows, enhancing the suspense and intrigue of the storyline.
  • Cartoon characters like Scooby-Doo frequently peer into dark corners or scary places, emphasizing their bravery despite being scared.

Science

  • In astronomy, scientists peer through telescopes, peering into the universe to understand celestial bodies.
  • Peering microscopically, scientists can observe the cellular structure of organisms, leading to groundbreaking discoveries in biology.

Origin of 'peered'

Main points about word origin

  • The word has roots in the Old English 'pirian,' meaning 'to look closely.'
  • It might be related to the word 'peer,' which originally referred to a person of equal standing or a close friend, reflecting a sense of looking closely at what another person is doing.

The word 'peer' originates from the Middle English 'piren', which means to look intently or to gaze. This word traces its roots back to the Old French 'pirer', meaning 'to look closely', which itself derives from the Late Latin 'pฤซrฤre', meaning 'to look through'. This evolution reflects a gradual shift from a general sense of looking to a more focused or intense form of observation. Over time, the verb has maintained a consistent meaning related to examining or scrutinizing something carefully. In contemporary use, 'to peer' often conveys a sense of seeking clarity or understanding in situations where visibility is obstructed or not easily attainable.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,432, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.