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Rods Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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rods

[rÉ’dz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

fishing equipment

Rods are long, slender, flexible pieces of material used primarily for angling. They are often made of fiberglass, carbon fiber, or graphite and are designed to cast a line or lure into the water.

Synonyms

poles, shafts, sticks.

Examples of usage

  • He cast his line with the new fishing rod.
  • The ice fishing rods are shorter to accommodate the conditions.
  • She purchased a carbon fiber rod for better sensitivity while fishing.
Context #2 | Noun

structure support

Rods can also refer to long, solid pieces of material that provide support or serve as a structural element in various applications, including construction and machinery.

Synonyms

bars, struts, supports.

Examples of usage

  • The engineer recommended using steel rods for reinforcement.
  • They installed metal rods to stabilize the foundation.
  • The structure relies on several concrete rods for its integrity.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • Rods are one of two types of photoreceptor cells in the retina, specialized for low-light vision.
  • Humans have about 120 million rods in their eyes, making them essential for night vision.
  • Unlike cones which detect color, rods are sensitive to light intensity and shape, aiding our perception in darkness.

Sports

  • Fishing rods come in various types, each designed for a specific fishing technique, such as fly fishing or deep-sea fishing.
  • In sports like pole vaulting, a long, flexible rod is used to help athletes jump over high bars.
  • Some sports use rods in training, such as gymnastics, to develop strength and form.

Technology

  • In physics and engineering, rods are often used in structures and machines due to their strength and rigidity.
  • Rods can also refer to the components in various instruments, including measuring tools for precision work.
  • Fiber optic rods help transmit light for communication technology, showcasing their versatility.

Sociocultural References

  • Rods feature in many ancient cultures as symbols of authority, such as in the scepters held by rulers.
  • In literature, the metaphor of a 'rod' can represent discipline or guidance, illustrated in various moral tales.
  • Rods are sometimes used in folklore, where they symbolize protection or divine intervention.

Origin of 'rods'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'rod' comes from Old English 'rodd' meaning a slender branch or twig.
  • In the late 15th century, the term began to be used for fishing tools known as rods.
  • In physics, the term 'rod' refers to a solid, cylindrical piece of material, illustrating its broader applications.

The word 'rod' originates from the Old English 'rodd', which referred to a branch or twig. This term has Germanic roots, as seen in similar words in Old High German ('ruota') meaning 'rod' or 'stick'. Over the centuries, the meaning of 'rod' expanded from its organic origins to encompass various applications, including those in fishing, construction, and other realms of technology. The evolution of the term reflects the broader shift in its usage across different contexts, demonstrating both the literal and metaphorical flexibility of the word.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,506 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.