Putting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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putting

[ˈpətɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

action

The act of placing something in a specific location or position.

Synonyms

placing, positioning, setting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
putting

General term for the action of moving something to a location without concern for precision or final arrangement.

  • She is putting the book on the table
  • He was putting his keys in his pocket
placing

Used when there is a consideration of carefulness or precision in how an item is put in a location.

  • He is placing the vase on the shelf carefully
  • She placed her hand on his shoulder gently
setting

Often used in contexts that imply preparation or establishment of an object, scene, or atmosphere. It can also imply placing items in a particular arrangement.

  • He is setting the table for dinner
  • She is setting the scene for the photo shoot
positioning

Refers to arranging something in a specific way or orientation, often with strategic thought involved.

  • The technician is positioning the satellite for optimal signal
  • She is positioning herself to get the best view of the stage

Examples of usage

  • She was putting the book back on the shelf.
  • He was putting his shoes on before going out.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Sports

  • Professional golfers spend nearly 40% of their practice time on putting to refine their skills.
  • The shortest putt ever made in a professional tournament was just a few inches, yet it can be crucial to a player's success.

Psychology

  • Studies have shown that visualization techniques can enhance a golfer's putting performance by boosting confidence.
  • The mental game of putting is often about managing anxiety and focus, making it as much a psychological challenge as a physical one.

Technology

  • High-tech putting aids, such as laser systems and augmented reality apps, are becoming popular for training around the world.
  • Some modern golf balls are designed with specialized dimples to improve performance on the green.

Pop Culture

  • The putting scene in the movie 'Caddyshack' is often humorously highlighted, showcasing the fun aspects of golf.
  • Video games like 'Tiger Woods PGA Tour' have popularized putting, engaging a younger audience in golf culture.

Origin of 'putting'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Middle English word 'putten,' which means to push or place something.
  • The phrase 'putting green' refers to the area on a golf course where putting occurs, specifically designed for this type of play.

The word 'putting' originates from the Old English word 'putian', meaning to thrust or push. Over time, the meaning of the word evolved to refer to the act of placing something in a specific location or position. The verb 'put' has been used in the English language for centuries, with 'putting' being a common form derived from it.


See also: put, putty.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,373, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.