Penetrate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
penetrate
[หpษnษชหtreษชt ]
Definition
infiltrate
To enter or pass into something. To infiltrate or permeate something. To understand or discover something by thorough examination or analysis.
Synonyms
enter, infiltrate, permeate, pierce.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| penetrate |
Used when something goes through a barrier or surface with force or intent. Often used in technical, medical, or military contexts.
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| infiltrate |
Describes secretly going into a place or group, often with negative connotations related to spying or subversion.
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| permeate |
Used when something spreads throughout something else, reaching every part. Frequently used to describe intangible things like smells or emotions.
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| pierce |
Describes going through a surface or material with something sharp. Often used in contexts involving physical objects or sensations.
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| enter |
A general term for going into a place or space. Suitable for everyday conversation.
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Examples of usage
- The spy managed to penetrate the enemy's defenses.
- The smell of freshly baked bread penetrated the room.
- It took me a while to penetrate the meaning of the poem.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In physics, 'penetration' refers to how far an object can go into another material, important in fields like engineering and materials science.
- Radiation penetration is a key concept in nuclear science, where different materials can block or allow radiation to pass through.
Psychology
- In mental health contexts, to 'penetrate' someone's defenses can describe the process of enabling deeper connections in therapy.
- Cognitive penetration is a theory suggesting that our beliefs and knowledge can influence our sensory experiences.
Literature
- In literature, themes of 'penetration' often appear in spy novels, where characters infiltrate secretive organizations.
- The use of 'penetrate' in poetry can symbolize deep understanding or connection between emotions and experiences.
Pop Culture
- The term 'penetrate' often appears in action movies where characters break through defenses, showcasing resilience and determination.
- In the realm of horror films, the idea of something penetrating a barrier can symbolize a threat breaking into a safe space.
Origin of 'penetrate'
Main points about word origin
- Derived from the Latin word 'penetrare', meaning 'to enter' or 'to reach.'
- The prefix 'pen-' suggests 'inside' or 'through,' while 'trare' pertains to 'to draw' or 'to pull.'
The word 'penetrate' comes from the Latin word 'penetrare', meaning 'to put or set within, to enter'. It has been used in English since the 16th century, originally with the sense of 'to thrust into, pierce'. Over time, its meaning has expanded to include the idea of entering or passing through something, whether physically or metaphorically.