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Scudding Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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scudding

[ˈskʌd.ɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

motion, weather

Scudding refers to the act of moving swiftly and lightly, often used to describe clouds that are being driven quickly across the sky by the wind. It can also pertain to boats or other vessels that move quickly across water, propelled by the wind. The term evokes a sense of speed and agility in motion, whether in nature or in sailing. Scudding clouds are often seen before a storm, indicating changing weather conditions. This term can also capture the beauty of watching nature in motion as elements are swept along by the forces of the atmosphere.

Synonyms

gliding, racing, sailing, sweeping.

Examples of usage

  • The clouds were scudding across the sky.
  • The boat was scudding over the waves.
  • Scudding winds signaled an approaching storm.
  • She watched the leaves scudding along the pavement.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In poetry, scudding clouds often symbolize change or the passage of time, evoking a sense of fleeting moments.
  • Famous writers like John Keats and William Wordsworth used imagery of scudding clouds to express emotions related to nature.

Meteorology

  • Meteorologists use 'scudding' to describe fast-moving clouds that indicate changes in weather, such as incoming storms.
  • Low, fast-moving clouds can signal stormy weather, while scudding clouds at high altitudes often mean clearer skies.

Art

  • Artists depict scudding clouds in landscapes to create dynamic scenes, often conveying movement and mood.
  • Impressionist painters like Claude Monet utilized scudding clouds to capture light and atmosphere in their work.

Pop Culture

  • The term 'scudding' has been featured in various songs and movies, often to illustrate a sense of adventure or urgency.
  • In animated films, scudding clouds are frequently used to signify the arrival of a storm or an exciting action scene.

Origin of 'scudding'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'scud' comes from the Old Norse word 'skuda,' meaning to move quickly or hastily.
  • It first appeared in English in the 16th century, often describing swift natural movements like clouds seen on windy days.

The word 'scudding' finds its roots in the early 18th century, derived from the term 'scud', which means to run or move quickly, especially in the context of clouds. This term is believed to originate from the Middle English term 'scudden', related to the Old Norse word 'skunda', meaning 'to hurry'. Scudding is often used in nautical contexts where sailors describe the fast movement of ships through turbulent waters, propelled by wind. Over time, the word has been adapted to describe not only maritime motion but also the fleeting movement of clouds and other objects, creating vivid imagery in both literature and conversation.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,378 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.