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Rustled: meaning, definitions and examples

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rustled

 

[ˈrʌsəld ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

making noise

The word 'rustled' refers to the sound made by moving through dry leaves, paper, or fabric. It typically describes a soft, crackling noise that is often associated with movement in nature, like animals moving through underbrush. Rustling can also describe the sound made when someone is handling papers or materials quickly. The term evokes a sense of gentle disturbance, often linked to natural settings or casual situations.

Synonyms

crackled, murmured, shuffled, stirred.

Examples of usage

  • The leaves rustled in the gentle breeze.
  • She rustled the papers on her desk as she searched for the document.
  • The animal rustled in the bushes, alerting us to its presence.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • This word comes from Middle English 'rustlen', which is related to the Old English word 'rustlian', meaning to make a noise.
  • The term has been used in various forms since the 14th century, illustrating its long-standing presence in the English language.

Nature

  • In forests, the rustling of leaves is often a signal of movement, indicating the presence of animals like deer or birds.
  • Certain animals, like rabbits and squirrels, create rustling sounds while foraging, helping them stay alert to potential dangers.

Literature

  • In storytelling, rustling sounds often build suspense, signaling an approaching character or something unnoticed lurking in the background.
  • Many poets use rustling imagery to evoke a sense of tranquility or the passage of time, connecting nature to human emotions.

Psychology

  • Soft rustling can elicit feelings of calm and safety, often linked to natural settings, which help reduce stress.
  • The sound of rustling is sometimes used in relaxation techniques and mindfulness exercises to enhance focus on the present moment.

Pop Culture

  • In film and television, rustling sounds are often used in horror genres to create tension, as they imply the presence of something scary.
  • The term 'rustled' has gained meme status in internet culture, often humorously referring to someone who is agitated or disturbed by a comment or situation.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,482, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.