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Sheer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŒฌ๏ธ
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sheer

[สƒษชr ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in fashion

used to emphasize the size, degree, or amount of something

Synonyms

absolute, complete, utter.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sheer

Used to emphasize the large amount, degree, or number of something. It's often used to enhance the feeling of surprise or awe.

  • The sheer size of the mountain was overwhelming.
  • She managed to achieve sheer perfection in her performance.
complete

Used to describe something that is whole, with all the parts included or finished. It can indicate that something has reached its entire or final form.

  • She has made a complete recovery.
  • They delivered the complete set of books.
absolute

Used when something is total, without any limitations or conditions. It can convey a sense of certainty or definitiveness.

  • He has absolute control over the situation.
  • Her resignation came as an absolute surprise.
utter

Used to highlight something that is carried to the fullest extent or extreme. Often used to indicate strong negative emotions or situations.

  • The meeting was an utter disaster.
  • Her story was met with utter disbelief.

Examples of usage

  • the sheer size of the building
  • the sheer number of people in attendance
Context #2 | Adjective

translucent

very thin and almost transparent

Synonyms

diaphanous, gossamer, translucent.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sheer

This word is often used to describe something that is very steep, like a cliff, or something that is very thin and almost transparent.

  • The hiker was intimidated by the sheer cliff
  • She chose a sheer blouse for the sunny day
diaphanous

Typically used in a more poetic or literary context to describe something light, delicate, and almost transparent, like fabric.

  • She wore a diaphanous gown that fluttered in the breeze
  • The curtains in the room were diaphanous, letting in soft, filtered light
gossamer

This word is mostly used to describe something extremely light, thin, and delicate. It often brings to mind delicate cobwebs or very fine fabric.

  • The bride's veil was made of gossamer fabric
  • The morning dew clung to the gossamer threads of a spider's web
translucent

Used to describe something that lets light through but is not completely transparent, commonly used for materials like glass or plastic.

  • The shower door was made of translucent glass, providing some privacy
  • The artist chose a translucent paint to give the effect of light passing through

Examples of usage

  • a sheer fabric
  • a sheer curtain
Context #3 | Verb

cut

to cut off something, especially with scissors or shears

Synonyms

clip, cut, trim.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sheer

When talking about something very thin or transparent, often used to describe fabrics like curtains or clothing.

  • She wore a sheer blouse for the party.
  • The sheer curtains let in plenty of light.
cut

Broadly used to describe the action of slicing, chopping, or removing a part of something with a sharp tool.

  • He cut the rope with a knife.
  • I cut my finger while preparing dinner.
trim

Usually used when referring to making something neat or reducing it slightly, often in the context of hair, plants, or materials.

  • She went to the salon to get her hair trimmed.
  • I need to trim the hedge in the garden.
clip

Commonly used when referring to cutting something quickly or snipping small pieces, often with scissors or a similar tool.

  • I need to clip my nails before the meeting.
  • She clipped a coupon out of the newspaper.

Examples of usage

  • sheer off the excess fabric
  • sheer the sheep

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Fashion

  • In textiles, sheerness refers to fabrics that are almost transparent, used in clothing for an elegant look.
  • Sheer garments often exude a sense of sensuality and can be layered for different effects in fashion.
  • Many designers use sheer fabrics during runway shows to create striking visuals that play with light and shadow.

Geography

  • Sheer cliffs are common in mountainous regions, presenting significant challenges for climbers and hikers.
  • The term is often used to describe dramatic geological formations, like those seen in fjords or steep coastlines.
  • Sheerness in geography emphasizes verticality and abruptness, making landscapes visually stunning.

Cultural References

  • The concept of 'sheer guts' is often used in literature and media to signify unyielding determination in the face of adversity.
  • In film, sheer visuals, like breathtaking landscapes or striking costumes, often leave a lasting impression on audiences.
  • Many songs and poems describe emotions with sheer intensity, showcasing the depth of feelings involved.

Psychology

  • In psychology, feelings of sheer joy or sheer fear can describe extreme emotions that profoundly impact human experience.
  • Sheer strength refers to a person's ability to overcome difficulties or hardships without faltering.
  • Research suggests that sheer moments of happiness often come from simple pleasures, reminding us of lifeโ€™s beauty.

Origin of 'sheer'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'scฤซere', which meant 'separate' or 'discrete' and has evolved over time.
  • In the 15th century, 'sheer' was used in nautical terms to describe the vertical rise of a ship's side.
  • The modern use of 'sheer' to describe lightness or transparency began in the 19th century.

The word 'sheer' originated from Middle English 'scher', which came from Old English 'scฤซr', meaning 'bright, clear, pure'. The sense of 'thin, transparent' developed in the late 16th century. Over time, 'sheer' has evolved to encompass various meanings related to size, degree, amount, and cutting.

See also: she.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,603 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.