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Strew Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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strew

[struห ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

on the ground

To scatter or spread things untidily over a surface or area.

Synonyms

disperse, scatter, spread, sprinkle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
strew

Use for describing something being spread in a disorderly way, often on the ground or over a surface.

  • The children strewed their toys all over the living room.
  • She strewed flower petals along the aisle.
scatter

Implies throwing or dropping things over a wide area, often without a specific pattern.

  • He scattered the ashes into the ocean.
  • The papers were scattered all over the floor.
sprinkle

Best used for describing small amounts of something being lightly and evenly distributed, often related to particles or liquids.

  • She sprinkled sugar on top of the cake.
  • The gardener sprinkled water on the flowers.
spread

Used when something is distributed or applied over an area, or more generally when something increases its reach.

  • She spread the butter on the toast.
  • The news of the event quickly spread through the town.
disperse

Appropriate for describing something being spread out widely in different directions, often used for groups of people or particles.

  • The police ordered the crowd to disperse.
  • The wind helped to disperse the seeds over a large area.

Examples of usage

  • He strewed the flowers along the path.
  • The floor was strewn with clothes.
  • I watched as the leaves strewed across the yard.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Shakespeare often used the term, reflecting themes of chaos and beauty in his plays.
  • In poetry, scattering imagery conveys emotions, such as loss, by describing elements strewed across scenes.
  • Modern authors use 'strew' to depict disorder or to symbolize the dispersal of thoughts and feelings.

Psychology

  • Scattering physical items can influence mood, often making spaces feel more relaxed or chaotic depending on arrangement.
  • Psychological studies show that scattering information (like notes) can help with memory retention in learning.
  • The act of strew can symbolize emotional release, reflecting a cluttering of feelings or memories.

Environmental Science

  • Responsible strew practices in gardening, like spreading compost, improve soil health and ecosystem balance.
  • Scattering seeds, known as 'strew planting', can promote biodiversity in reforestation efforts.
  • Understanding how natural elements are strewed can help in soil erosion prevention techniques.

Culinary Arts

  • In cooking, to strew spices or herbs can elevate flavors and spread aroma throughout the dish.
  • Bakers often strew powdered sugar or chocolate on desserts for decoration and added taste.
  • Strewing ingredients can also refer to the artistic flair in presenting food, enhancing both appeal and enjoyment.

Origin of 'strew'

Main points about word origin

  • The word has Old English roots, deriving from 'streowan', which means to scatter.
  • Related words include 'strewed' (the past tense) and 'strewed about', emphasizing distribution.
  • The appearance of the word in literature can be traced back to the 14th century, often used in poetic expressions.

The word 'strew' originated from Middle English 'strewen', from Old English 'strฤ“owian', meaning 'to scatter, spread'. It has been used in English language since the 12th century. Over the years, 'strew' has evolved to represent the act of scattering or spreading things in a disorderly manner.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,360, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.