Resonant: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from Latin 'resonare,' which means 'to resound' or 'to echo.'
• It entered the English language in the 15th century, originally relating to sound.
• Over time, the meaning expanded to include emotional and intellectual effects.

Science

• Resonance is a phenomenon in physics where a system naturally vibrates at certain frequencies.
• Musical instruments, like guitars, produce sound through resonant frequencies that enhance the notes played.
• In chemistry, resonance refers to the way certain structures can be represented by multiple valid forms, enhancing stability.

Literature

• In literary terms, a resonant theme is one that strikes a chord with readers, evoking strong feelings or thoughts.
• Poets often use resonant imagery to create lasting impressions that linger in the reader’s mind.
• Famous works resonate with audiences for generations, showcasing universal truths about human experience.

Pop Culture

• In music, songs that have a resonant quality often become hits because they connect deeply with listeners.
• Many films use resonant themes of love, loss, or triumph that audiences can relate to and remember long after watching.
• The term has been used in popular psychology to describe ideas that linger in culture and influence behavior.

Psychology

• People often describe memories triggered by sounds as resonant, helping them revisit emotions from the past.
• Resonance in conversations can occur when people find common ground, leading to deeper and more meaningful exchanges.
• This concept is also important in therapy, where resonant moments lead to breakthroughs in understanding and healing.

Ranked #10,722, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

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