Shallowing: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Old English 'sceald,' meaning 'to be shallow' or 'to decline.'
• Its first recorded use dates back to the 14th century, reflecting discussions on depth in physical terms, often related to water.
• The transformation of the word into the verb 'shallowing' is part of how language evolved to include more dynamic actions.

Environmental Science

• Shallowing often describes changes in bodies of water due to sediment build-up or human activities like dredging.
• Ecosystems in shallow waters are rich and diverse, supporting plant and animal life that wouldn't thrive in deeper water.
• Pollution and climate change can lead to increased shallowing of lakes and rivers, impacting water quality and biodiversity.

Psychology

• In psychology, the term can describe surface-level thinking, where someone only considers the obvious aspects of a situation rather than deeper implications.
• Shallow processing in learning can lead to poor retention of information, emphasizing the importance of depth in educational practices.
• The concept reflects how emotional depth can be related to the connection we form in relationships; shallow relationships often lack intimacy.

Literature

• Shallow characters in novels are often criticized for lack of development, where they don’t experience growth or change throughout the story.
• Poets may use 'shallow' imagery to highlight contrasts between deep feelings and superficial actions.
• Themes of shallowness can explore societal critiques, particularly regarding consumer culture and the pursuit of surface-level happiness.

Pop Culture

• In film, 'shallow' characters often serve as comedic relief, providing a stark contrast to more complex protagonists.
• Musical references, like the song 'Shallow' from the movie 'A Star is Born,' explore the connection between depth of feeling and vulnerability.
• The idea of 'shallow fame' is often discussed in the context of social media, where appearances can be deceiving, masking deeper issues.