Resonate: meaning, definitions and examples

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resonate

 

[ ˈrɛzəˌneɪt ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

sound

Produce or be filled with a deep, full, reverberating sound.

Synonyms

echo, reverberate, ring.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
resonate

Usually used when something strikes a chord with someone, creates an emotional or intellectual impact. Often used in discussions about ideas, messages, or experiences.

  • Her speech really resonated with the audience.
  • The movie's theme resonated with many viewers.
reverberate

Describes a loud sound continuing to be heard, often used in a physical sense or to suggest significant, often lasting impact or reverberation of effects. Has a more intense connotation compared to 'echo'.

  • The explosion reverberated through the valley.
  • The scandal's impact continues to reverberate through the industry.
echo

Often used to describe a sound that repeats due to reflection, or metaphorically to suggest repetition or mimicry of a thought or sentiment. Also used in technology related contexts, like computer systems.

  • His words echoed in the empty room.
  • Their concerns echoed those of many employees.
ring

Used when describing a clear, resonant sound, often like that of a bell. Can also be used metaphorically to describe something gaining widespread recognition or retaining a sense of truth.

  • The alarm clock began to ring loudly.
  • His words still ring true today.

Examples of usage

  • His deep voice resonated through the hall.
  • The sound of the bell resonated in the air.
Context #2 | Verb

emotions

Evoke or suggest images, memories, and emotions.

Synonyms

evoke, strike a chord, suggest.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
resonate

Use this word when referring to something that has a deep emotional impact or that aligns well with someone's feelings or experiences.

  • Her speech about overcoming challenges really resonated with the audience.
  • The movie resonated with me because it reminded me of my own childhood.
evoke

This word is best suited for situations where something brings a memory, feeling, or image to mind, often through sensory experiences or associations.

  • The scent of roses always evokes memories of my grandmother's garden.
  • His painting style evokes the essence of the Renaissance period.
suggest

This word is useful when implying or indicating something subtly, without stating it directly.

  • Her calm demeanor suggested she was confident about the presentation.
  • The dark clouds suggest a storm is on the way.
strike a chord

Use this phrase to describe something that touches someone's feelings or emotions in a significant way, often unexpectedly.

  • The song struck a chord with me because the lyrics were so heartfelt.
  • Her story about overcoming adversity struck a chord with the entire audience.

Examples of usage

  • The painting resonates with feelings of nostalgia.
  • The message of the movie resonated with the audience.

Translations

Translations of the word "resonate" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ressonar

🇮🇳 गूंजना

🇩🇪 erklingen

🇮🇩 bergema

🇺🇦 резонувати

🇵🇱 rezonować

🇯🇵 響く (ひびく)

🇫🇷 résonner

🇪🇸 resonar

🇹🇷 yankılanmak

🇰🇷 울리다

🇸🇦 رنين

🇨🇿 rezonovat

🇸🇰 rezonovať

🇨🇳 共鸣 (gòngmíng)

🇸🇮 rezonirati

🇮🇸 hljóma

🇰🇿 резонанс тудыру

🇬🇪 რეზონირება

🇦🇿 rezonans yaratmaq

🇲🇽 resonar

Etymology

The word 'resonate' originates from the Latin word 'resonare', meaning 'to resound'. It first appeared in English in the early 17th century. The concept of resonance has been important in various fields including physics, music, and psychology, reflecting the deep impact and connection the word has had throughout history.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,821, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.