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Reclining: meaning, definitions and examples

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reclining

 

[rɪˈklaɪnɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

body position

Reclining refers to a posture in which a person leans back or is placed in a tilted position so as to be more comfortable or relaxed. This position is often associated with activities like resting, reading, or watching television. Reclining can be achieved in various ways, such as using a recliner chair, lying on a couch, or even adjusting a seat in a vehicle. It's a common term used in both casual and formal contexts when discussing comfort levels or specific furniture design.

Synonyms

leaning back, reposing, resting.

Examples of usage

  • She was reclining on the sofa with a good book.
  • The chair allows for reclining back to enhance comfort.
  • After a long day, he preferred reclining in his favorite chair.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'reclining' comes from the Latin 'reclinare,' which means 'to lean back' or 'to lay down.'
  • In Middle English, 'recline' emerged around the 14th century, showing its long-standing use in the language.
  • The transition from Latin to modern languages often involved shifts in usage, with 'recline' gaining a specific meaning related to posture.

Design and Architecture

  • Reclining chairs were developed in the early 18th century, emphasizing comfort in furniture design.
  • Modern ergonomic chairs often include reclining features to promote better posture and spinal health.
  • In architecture, reclining spaces are often designed with the idea of relaxation, promoting mental well-being.

Psychology

  • Reclining has been linked to feelings of safety and comfort, often evoking calmness and stress relief.
  • Psychologists find that a reclined position can influence mood and relaxation during therapeutic practices.
  • Entering a reclined state can trigger responses in the brain that promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.

Literature

  • In various literary works, reclining often symbolizes a state of reflection or surrender, reflecting characters’ emotional states.
  • Writers use the imagery of reclining to denote peace or escape from the chaos of life.
  • Reclining characters are often depicted as having their guards down, inviting deeper connections with other characters.

Cultural References

  • Cinemas embraced reclining seats, changing how audiences experience films by adding luxury and comfort.
  • In some cultures, reclining while eating is traditional, symbolizing hospitality and relaxation.
  • Reclining yoga poses emphasize relaxation and grounding, illustrating the balance between mind and body.

Translations

Translations of the word "reclining" in other languages:

🇵🇹 reclinável

🇮🇳 पीठ के बल लेटना

🇩🇪 liegend

🇮🇩 berbaring

🇺🇦 лежачий

🇵🇱 leżący

🇯🇵 リクライニング

🇫🇷 incliné

🇪🇸 reclinado

🇹🇷 yatarken

🇰🇷 눕는

🇸🇦 مائل

🇨🇿 ležící

🇸🇰 ležatý

🇨🇳 倾斜的

🇸🇮 nagnjen

🇮🇸 liggjandi

🇰🇿 жатқан

🇬🇪 დაწვდილი

🇦🇿 yatmış

🇲🇽 reclinado

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,124, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.