Scars Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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scars

[skษ‘rz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

physical mark

Scars are marks left on the skin after a wound has healed. They can vary in size, color, and texture, and may result from injuries, surgeries, or skin conditions. Scars may also serve as a reminder of past trauma or medical procedures.

Synonyms

blemish, imperfection, mark, stain.

Examples of usage

  • She had a scar on her arm from the accident.
  • The surgeon promised that the scar would fade over time.
  • He looked at the scars on his chest with a sense of pride.
  • The athlete's knee scars told a story of perseverance.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Medical Science

  • Scars form when the skin heals after an injury, and the body creates new tissue to repair itself.
  • Different skin types and colors can affect how scars look, making some more noticeable than others.
  • Not all wounds leave scars; minor cuts may heal without leaving a mark at all.

Cultural Significance

  • In some cultures, scars are seen as symbols of bravery, representing battles fought or obstacles overcome.
  • Tattooing over scars is becoming a popular way to turn these marks into art and personal expression.
  • Certain societies view body modifications leading to scars as rites of passage or markers of maturity.

Psychology

  • Scars can symbolize emotional wounds; people may relate them to past traumas that have shaped who they are.
  • Healing from a scarโ€”physically and emotionallyโ€”is often seen as a journey towards resilience and strength.
  • People may develop a complex relationship with their scars, impacting their self-esteem and body image.

Literature and Art

  • Scars often appear in literature as metaphors for personal struggles or survival in a character's journey.
  • Artists sometimes use scars in their work to explore themes of beauty, imperfection, and the passage of time.
  • In ancient stories, heroes are frequently depicted as having scars to signify their challenges and enduring nature.

Historical Context

  • Historically, scars have been linked to different societal roles; warriors often displayed scars as accolades of their bravery.
  • Scarification, the intentional scarring of the skin, has been practiced in various cultures for spiritual or aesthetic purposes.
  • In some ancient civilizations, scars were symbols of status or identity, reflecting a person's life experiences.

Origin of 'scars'

The word 'scar' originates from the Old French word 'escarre' which meant 'a wound, mark, or cut', derived from the Latin term 'excara' which translates to 'to remove skin or hide'. Its use in English can be traced back to the 14th century. Throughout history, scars have been seen not just as physical reminders of injuries, but also as symbols of survival, resilience, and experiences that shape peopleโ€™s narratives. The understanding of scars has evolved, not only in the medical realm but also in cultural contexts, where they can signify a story worth telling. The word conveys a deeper meaning beyond mere appearance, often tying to the human condition, healing processes, and the marks life's experiences leave behind.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,900, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.