Rung Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
🪜
rung
[rʌŋ ]
Definitions
ladder step
A rung is a horizontal support or step on a ladder, which provides a foothold for a person climbing up or down. Each rung is evenly spaced to allow for easy ascent and descent. Rungs are usually made of wood, metal, or other sturdy materials to ensure safety and stability. They play an essential role in the overall design and functionality of ladders.
Synonyms
crosspiece, ladder step, step.
Examples of usage
- She climbed the ladder, stepping carefully on each rung.
- The old ladder had a few rungs missing.
- He painted the rungs of the ladder bright red for visibility.
past tense
Rung is the past tense of the verb 'ring,' which means to sound a bell or to make a ringing noise. In this form, it typically refers to an action that has already occurred, such as the ringing of a bell or a phone. It can also indicate the completion of an event that involved sound.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The church bell had rung loudly at noon.
- She rung the doorbell twice before entering.
- The alarm had rung for five minutes before he woke up.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Physics
- The design of a ladder, including its rungs, plays a crucial role in the distribution of weight and stability.
- A ladder with missing rungs is considered unsafe due to impaired structural integrity.
- In physics, the concept of 'rungs' can also apply to a model representing energy levels in an atom.
Cultural References
- The phrase 'the rung of the ladder' is often used to symbolize steps in a career or life progression.
- Many cultures have traditional ladders with unique designs, each rung serving aesthetic and functional purposes.
- Songs and poems often use 'rung' to represent aspirational progress or climbing towards dreams.
Psychology
- Climbing the ladder metaphorically, such as 'career rungs', is associated with feelings of achievement and validation.
- Metaphorical rungs may represent stages in personal development or emotional growth in psychological theories.
- The health benefits of climbing ladders or stairs highlight physical exercise as a mood booster.
Literature
- In many literary works, ladders and their rungs symbolize ambition and the challenges of rising in society.
- Rungs are often portrayed in fairy tales as a means to reach magical places or experiences.
- Classic authors such as Dickens use the metaphor of a ladder to depict the social hierarchy in their narratives.
Origin of 'rung'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'rung' comes from the Old Norse word ' rǫng', which meant 'to stretch or reach out'.
- It has been used in English since the 14th century to refer to ladder steps.
- Since 'rung' refers to a level in a hierarchical structure, it extended metaphorically to describe positions in organizations.
The word 'rung' has its origins in Middle English, derived from the Old Norse word 'hrung,' which means 'to ring' or 'to sound.' The noun usage referring to a ladder step can be traced back to the late 16th century, which relates to the concept of various supports for climbing. As a verb, 'rung' represents the past tense of 'ring,' relating to the sound produced by bells and other objects. The evolution of the word showcases its utility in both physical and auditory contexts, illustrating how language develops to accommodate physical actions and atmospheric qualities.