Shallowest Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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shallowest

[หˆสƒรฆl.oสŠ.ษชst ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

depth measurement

Shallowest refers to the least deep or superficial point in a given context. It is typically used to describe the most minimal depth in water bodies or other contexts where depth is a factor.

Synonyms

slightest, superficial, surface-level, thin.

Examples of usage

  • The shallowest part of the lake is perfect for children to play in.
  • In this research, the shallowest depth was recorded at one meter.
  • The shallowest region of the ocean is often teeming with marine life.
  • This pool has the shallowest area near the entrance for safe access.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Science

  • In ecology, shallow waters are important habitats for many species, as they usually have higher light levels for plant growth.
  • Shallow lakes often warm up more quickly in the summer, affecting the local climate and ecosystems.
  • In geology, shallow regions are significant for the formation of certain types of sedimentary rocks, due to less pressure and heat.

Literature

  • In literature, characters who are described as 'shallow' may lack depth in personality or emotions, often focusing on surface-level attributes.
  • Shakespeare's works often explored the contrast between shallow relationships and those with deeper, more meaningful connections.
  • The concept of 'shallow' thinking in literature can represent characters who decide based on appearances rather than deeper truths.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, a character described as 'shallow' often prioritizes looks, wealth, or status, rather than values or intelligence, often leading to humorous situations.
  • Songs often critique shallow relationships, with lyrics focused on the importance of emotional connection over superficial traits.
  • Reality TV shows frequently portray 'shallow' personalities as they often showcase drama based on surface-level conflicts.

Psychology

  • Shallow thinking is a cognitive bias where individuals focus on superficial factors rather than engaging in critical or deep analysis.
  • Research in psychology shows that people may prefer shallow engagements if they feel overwhelmed by deeper complexities.
  • Social media is often criticized for promoting shallow interactions, where connections may lack genuine emotional depth.

Origin of 'shallowest'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'shallow' comes from Old English 'sceald' which referred to something that is not deep.
  • The suffix '-est' is added to adjectives to show the highest degree, as in 'smallest' or 'tallest'.
  • Over time, this combination became widely used in the English language to describe varying levels of depth.

The term 'shallow' originates from the Old English word 'sceald', which denotes a low water level. This word evolved through Middle English as 'schalowe', ultimately leading to the modern English 'shallow'. The superlative form 'shallowest' emerged to indicate the extreme degree of shallow, often used in literature and everyday conversation to describe physical or metaphorical depth. The evolution of the word has allowed it to be flexible in application, extending beyond just physical dimensions, where it can denote a lack of depth in character or ideas as well. Historically, the concept of shallowness has been vital in various contexts, such as geographical descriptions and metaphorical uses that critique moral or intellectual substance.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,043 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.