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Sinewy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sinewy

[ˈsɪnjuːi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

physical description

Sinewy describes something that is lean, muscular, and strong in appearance. It often refers to a body type that is not overly bulky but rather long, toned, and athletic. The term suggests an emphasis on toughness and resilience, often associated with physical labor or rigorous training. Sinewy figures are commonly admired in various sports and physical activities for their strength and agility.

Synonyms

brawny, lanky, lean, muscular.

Examples of usage

  • She had a sinewy build that spoke of years of training.
  • His sinewy arms were a testament to his hard work in the gym.
  • The sinewy horse galloped gracefully across the field.
  • Despite his sinewy appearance, he was incredibly strong.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In literature, 'sinewy' often describes strong characters or heroes, emphasizing their physical prowess and determination.
  • Writers like John Steinbeck have used the term to portray hardworking individuals, emphasizing a connection between physicality and strength of character.

Art

  • Artists often use 'sinewy' lines in their works to convey motion and strength, seen in classical sculptures and dynamic paintings.
  • The human form, depicted with sinewy lines, showcases not just muscularity but also elegance and grace, enhancing visual appeal.

Biology

  • Sinewy structures are important in biological systems, particularly in tendons and ligaments that connect muscles to bones.
  • Understanding sinewy traits in animals helps in fields like genetics and evolution, revealing adaptation to environments.

Sports

  • Athletes often train to develop sinewy muscle structures, focusing on strength and endurance rather than bulk.
  • Certain sports, like rock climbing or gymnastics, highlight sinewy strength as crucial for performance and agility.

Origin of 'sinewy'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'sinewy' comes from the Old English word 'sinu,' which means 'tendon' or 'muscle,' linking it to strength.
  • Originally used to describe animals, it later applied to humans and used metaphorically for things like ropes or trees.

The word 'sinewy' originates from the Middle English 'sinwe', which means 'tendon' or 'sinew'. This term is derived from the Old English 'sinew', which has the same meaning. Historically, sinews were associated with strength and power, as they are the connective tissues that bind muscles to bones. The use of the word evolved to describe not only the physical aspects of strength but also the lean and agile form that suggests athleticism. Its application in literature and everyday language signals a recognition of the strength that comes from being sinewy versus merely bulky, reflecting a cultural appreciation for agility and endurance.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,651, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.