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Prettier Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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prettier

[หˆprษชtiษ™r ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

appearance, comparative

The word 'prettier' is a comparative form of the adjective 'pretty', which means attractive in a delicate way without being truly beautiful. It is often used to describe someone or something that has a pleasing appearance or charm that is engaging. 'Prettier' can be used in various contexts, including descriptions of people, objects, or scenes that evoke a sense of beauty that is sweet rather than strong.

Synonyms

fairer, more appealing, more attractive, more charming.

Examples of usage

  • She looked prettier than ever in that dress.
  • This garden is prettier than the one next door.
  • The sunset tonight is even prettier than usual.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • In pop culture, phrases like 'girls just want to have fun' often emphasize beauty as a form of self-expression.
  • Many songs focus on themes of beauty, with 'prettier' often used to compare appearances in the context of love and relationships.

Psychology

  • Studies show that people often associate beauty with positive traits, such as kindness and intelligence, a phenomenon known as the 'halo effect.'
  • The perception of beauty is influenced by cultural standards, which can vary widely across different societies.

Literature

  • In literature, characters described as 'prettier' often symbolize ideals of virtue and goodness, reflecting societal values of their time.
  • Various authors have played with definitions of beauty, questioning what it truly means to be 'prettier' in their narratives.

Art

  • Visual art often seeks to evoke feelings of beauty; artists may focus on elements that make a subject appear 'prettier' to convey emotion.
  • The concept of beauty in art is subjective; what one person finds 'prettier' may differ greatly from another's opinion.

Origin of 'prettier'

Main points about word origin

  • The word derives from the Middle English word 'pretty,' which meant 'crafty' or 'ingenious.'
  • Originally, 'pretty' was used to describe something that was sly or cunning, showing how meanings can change over time.

The term 'pretty' comes from the Old English word 'pryttig', which means 'crafty' or 'sly'. Over time, its meaning evolved to represent attractiveness, especially in a delicate or charming way. By the Middle Ages, 'pretty' was commonly used to describe someone or something that was attractively nice or pleasing. The comparative form 'prettier' emerged in the English language to signify the increased level of attractiveness. This evolution reflects the shifting perceptions of beauty and attractiveness across various periods in history, emphasizing a more gentle and sweet aspect of beauty rather than stark or intense qualities. The word became more entrenched in the language, influencing everyday conversations and descriptions across cultures.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,599, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.