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Ski Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ski

[skiː ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

winter sports

A long, narrow piece of hard material that you attach to boots and use to move over snow.

Synonyms

sled, sledge, snowboard.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ski

Using long, narrow, flat boards to slide over snow. Commonly associated with a winter sport in which individuals or teams race or perform tricks on snow-covered terrain.

  • I love to ski down the mountains during winter vacations.
  • They went to the Alps to enjoy some skiing.
snowboard

Using a flat board attached to the feet for gliding on snow slopes, commonly associated with performing tricks and speed racing in winter sports.

  • He decided to try snowboarding instead of skiing this year.
  • Snowboarding looks challenging, but it's a lot of fun once you get the hang of it.
sled

A small vehicle used for sliding downhill over snow or ice, typically pushed or pulled by someone. Often used for recreation by children.

  • The kids were outside enjoying the snowfall, taking turns on the sled.
  • We found a perfect hill to use the sled on.
sledge

A vehicle on runners for conveying loads or passengers over snow or ice, often larger than a sled and used for heavy-duty purposes, sometimes pulled by animals.

  • The explorers used a sledge to transport their supplies across the Arctic.
  • During the winter, farmers relied on a horse-drawn sledge to carry goods.

Examples of usage

  • I love to ski in the mountains every winter.
  • She learned how to ski when she was just a child.
Context #2 | Verb

snow activities

To move over snow wearing skis.

Synonyms

glide, slide, slip.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ski

This word is specifically used when referring to the activity of moving over snow using skis. It is often associated with winter sports and recreational activities.

  • We went to the mountains to ski during the winter break.
  • He learned how to ski when he was just a child.
glide

This word is used to describe smooth, effortless movement over a surface. It can be used in various contexts including ice, water, or air.

  • The ice skater seemed to glide effortlessly across the rink.
  • The bird could glide for long distances without flapping its wings.
slide

Used to describe the action of moving smoothly over a surface due to slipping or a downward incline. Commonly used in both playful and accidental contexts.

  • The children love to slide down the hill on their sleds.
  • I almost slipped because the floor was wet, but managed to slide and regain my balance.
slip

This word describes an unintentional or accidental movement where someone or something loses traction. It often has a negative connotation, implying a potential fall or mishap.

  • Be careful on the ice so that you don't slip and fall.
  • I slipped on the wet floor and hurt my back.

Examples of usage

  • We decided to ski down the hill together.
  • He enjoys skiing in the backcountry.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The practice of using skis dates back over 5,000 years, originating from ancient cultures in Europe and Asia for transportation and hunting.
  • Skiing became popular in Norway in the 19th century, leading to the establishment of ski clubs and competitions.
  • The word 'ski' comes from the Old Norse word 'skíð', which means 'split piece of wood' or 'stick.'

Pop Culture

  • Skiing gained fame in the 1960s and 70s, thanks in part to movies and advertisements promoting ski resorts.
  • The 1996 Olympics featured Alpine skiing as a key event, showcasing extreme skills and speed on the slopes.
  • Modern fashion trends even incorporate ski wear, popularizing brand collaborations with ski resorts in the 21st century.

Science

  • Ski technology has advanced with the use of materials like carbon fiber, improving performance and reducing weight.
  • The physics of skiing emphasizes balance, gravity, and the forces involved in moving down slopes, adding a scientific layer to the sport.
  • Snow conditions greatly affect skiing, with factors like temperature and moisture transforming the snow's texture.

Psychology

  • Skiing is often linked to feelings of freedom and exhilaration, which can positively impact mood and mental health.
  • Learning to ski can boost confidence, especially for children, as they overcome challenges and improve their skills.
  • The adrenaline associated with skiing can trigger the release of endorphins, creating a natural 'high' for many skiers.

Literature

  • Skiing motifs often appear in literature as symbols of adventure and escape in nature tales.
  • Famous authors like Ernest Hemingway often wrote about outdoor experiences, including skiing, highlighting connection with nature.
  • Poetry has been inspired by the imagery of snow-covered mountains and the thrill of the slope, appealing to readers' senses.

Origin of 'ski'

The word 'ski' originated from the Old Norse word 'skio', which means a stick of wood. Skis have been used as a mode of transportation for thousands of years, with evidence of their use dating back to ancient times in Scandinavia and Russia. Today, skiing is a popular winter sport enjoyed by millions around the world.

See also: skiing.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,207, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.