Sundered Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sundered

[หˆsสŒndษ™rd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

physical separation

To sunder means to break, split, or divide something into parts. It often refers to a physical separation but can also be used metaphorically to describe the breaking of relationships or connections.

Synonyms

break, divide, separate, split.

Examples of usage

  • The storm sundered the ship from its moorings.
  • Years of conflict have sundered the two nations.
  • Their differing beliefs sundered their friendship.
Context #2 | Verb

emotional separation

Sunder can also refer to emotional or relational breakage, emphasizing the impact of division on social or personal bonds.

Synonyms

detach, disjoin, dissolve, partition.

Examples of usage

  • The betrayal sundered their trust.
  • Death often sundered families, leaving them to mourn.
  • Distance can sunder friendships over time.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Sundered is often used in poetry and prose to evoke emotions tied to loss or division.
  • In Shakespeare's works, themes of separation and conflict frequently lead to sundering relationships.
  • Classic novels like 'Wuthering Heights' showcase characters who undergo emotional sundering due to circumstances.

Psychology

  • Sundering in relationships can lead to psychological repercussions, such as grief or depression.
  • The process of sundering can be a significant factor in development, highlighting emotional resilience.
  • People often feel like they have been sundered from their past selves during major life changes, like moving to a new city.

Cultural Significance

  • Various cultures have folklore involving the sundering of families, often as a plot device in tales of love and loss.
  • Sundering is a common theme in war narratives, reflecting the real-world impacts of conflict on relationships.
  • Many songs and ballads reference being sundered as a metaphor for heartbreak and longing.

History

  • Historical events, such as the partitioning of territories, often lead to communities being sundered and lead to long-lasting impacts.
  • The term is often applied to the sundering of empires, bringing forth both cultural and political consequences.
  • Various revolutions throughout history have resulted in sundering existing societal structures.

Origin of 'sundered'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'sundor', which means 'apart' or 'separate'.
  • Its use can be traced back to early Middle English in literature, often to describe separation.
  • Related words include 'sunder', which means the action of separating.

The word 'sunder' originates from the Old English term 'sundor', which means 'apart' or 'separate'. This term has Germanic roots, related to the Old High German 'sundar' and the Dutch 'sonder', both meaning 'separate' or 'aside'. The evolution of the word reflects the concept of division and separation across various contexts. Over time, 'sunder' developed into a more versatile term used in both literal and metaphorical senses. It has been used in literature and poetry to convey strong emotions associated with separation, enhancing its cultural significance. The transition from its Old English origins to contemporary usage illustrates the language's capacity to adapt and expand meanings, making the word relevant in discussions about relationships, both personal and societal.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,169 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.