Turner: meaning, definitions and examples
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turner
[ ˈtɜːrnər ]
art
A person who creates works of art, especially paintings or drawings.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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turner |
Used for individuals who make objects by shaping material on a lathe. Typically refers to craftsmen dealing with metal or wood.
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painter |
Someone who paints images or designs on surfaces, typically canvases. Can also refer to a person who paints walls and buildings, but here it refers to the artistic profession.
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artist |
Broad term for someone who creates art, encompassing all kinds of visual art forms including painting, drawing, sculpture, and more. Seen as a profession or identity for those highly engaged in the creative arts.
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drawer |
Specifically refers to someone who draws pictures or sketches. Can also mean a sliding box or compartment in furniture, though not in this context.
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Examples of usage
- The famous painter is known as a talented turner.
- She is a skilled turner, specializing in landscapes and portraits.
machinery
A person who operates a lathe or similar machine used for shaping wood, metal, or other materials.
Synonyms
lathe operator, machinist, woodworker.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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turner |
Usually associated with someone who specifically works with a lathe in various materials. Commonly used for detailed, custom, or artistic pieces.
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lathe operator |
Typically referred to someone who operates a lathe in an industrial or manufacturing setting, often dealing with metal or other durable materials for functional parts.
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machinist |
Refers to a skilled worker who operates various machine tools to create or modify parts, usually in metalworking or engineering contexts. Responsibilities may include operating lathes, mills, and grinding machines.
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woodworker |
Specifically refers to someone who crafts items from wood, often creating furniture, carvings, or other wooden artifacts. This term highlights the material over the tools used.
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Examples of usage
- The turner carefully crafted the intricate design on the wooden furniture.
- He learned how to be a turner and now works in a factory producing metal components.
surname
A surname of English origin, derived from the occupational name for a turner of wood or metal.
Synonyms
Turner clan, Turner family, Turner surname.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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turner |
This is used as a proper noun, often a last name. It's suitable for formal contexts such as addressing or identifying individuals.
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Turner family |
This phrase is used to formally or informally talk about the family members who share the last name Turner. It can be used in both friendly and formal conversations.
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Turner surname |
This phrase is more technical and is used in formal or official contexts to specifically mention the last name 'Turner.' It might be used in documents or discussions about genealogy or last names.
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Turner clan |
This phrase is used informally to refer to a group of people with the last name Turner, usually implying a large family or close-knit group. It might be used in friendly or casual conversation.
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Examples of usage
- John Turner is a common surname in English-speaking countries.
- The family history traced back to the Turner ancestors who were skilled craftsmen.
Etymology
The word 'turner' has a long history, originating from the Old English word 'turnian' meaning 'to turn or shape with a lathe'. It was commonly used to refer to craftsmen who worked with wood or metal, creating various objects through turning. Over time, the term expanded to include artists who created works of art, such as paintings and drawings. In the context of machinery, 'turner' also refers to individuals skilled in operating lathes or similar equipment for shaping materials. The surname 'Turner' reflects the historical association with the occupation of turning wood or metal. Today, 'turner' continues to be used in both artistic and mechanical contexts, representing creativity and craftsmanship.
See also: downturn, overturn, turn, turnaround, turncoat, turning, turnout, turnover, turnpike, turntable.