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Raven Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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raven

[หˆreษชvษ™n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

bird

A large, black bird with a straight bill and long wedge-shaped tail, known for its intelligence and adaptability.

Synonyms

blackbird, corbie, crow.

Examples of usage

  • The raven is often associated with death and mystery.
  • Legend has it that if you see a raven, it may be a sign of good luck.
  • The raven's call echoed through the forest.
Context #2 | Noun

Edgar Allan Poe's poem

In literature, a symbol of darkness, death, and mystery, popularized by Edgar Allan Poe's poem 'The Raven'.

Synonyms

bird of ill omen, ominous bird.

Examples of usage

  • 'Quoth the raven, 'Nevermore',' is a famous line from Poe's poem.
  • The raven in the poem serves as a foreboding presence.
  • The raven's appearance in the story added to its eerie atmosphere.
Context #3 | Verb

to hover

To hover over or around something in a menacing or persistent manner, like a raven.

Synonyms

brood, hover, loom.

Examples of usage

  • The dark clouds seemed to raven over the village.
  • The memories of the past ravened in his mind.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Ravens are famously featured in Edgar Allan Poe's poem 'The Raven', symbolizing mystery and loss.
  • In many cultures, these birds appear in myths and fairy tales, often representing otherworldliness or wisdom.

Culture

  • In various Native American traditions, the raven is considered a trickster and a creator figure, embodying intelligence and change.
  • Ravens have appeared in popular culture as symbols of omens, seen in movies and literature such as Game of Thrones.

Science

  • Ravens are known for their exceptional intelligence, with the ability to solve complex problems and even use tools.
  • They communicate with a range of sounds and can mimic the calls of other birds and even human speech.

Mythology

  • Norse mythology features the god Odin with two ravens, Huginn and Muninn, who represent thought and memory.
  • In Celtic mythology, the raven is associated with the goddess Morrigan, symbolizing fate and battle.

Origin of 'raven'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'hrรฆfn', which has roots in many Germanic languages, all referencing the same bird.
  • The name reflects the bird's distinctive color and calls, linking it to ancient stories and folklore.

The word 'raven' has its origins in Old English 'hrรฆfn', which is related to Old Norse 'hrafn' and German 'Rabe'. Ravens have been a part of folklore and mythology in various cultures, often symbolizing different themes such as death, magic, or wisdom. In literature, the raven gained significant popularity through Edgar Allan Poe's poem 'The Raven', published in 1845. The poem portrays the raven as a mysterious and ominous bird, contributing to its symbolic significance in modern culture.

See also: ravenous.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,654, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.