Unearth Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
šµļøāāļø
unearth
[ŹnĖÉrĪø ]
Definitions
discover
Unearth means to discover something hidden, lost, or kept secret. It can also refer to digging up the ground to find something buried beneath the surface.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unearth |
Used when finding something that has been hidden or buried for a long time, often in an archaeological or historical context.
|
| discover |
Used when finding something new or unknown, often through exploration or research.
|
| find |
A general term used for coming across something by chance or after a search. It's the most common and versatile among the options.
|
| uncover |
Used when revealing something that was covered or hidden, often related to revealing information or truths.
|
Examples of usage
- Archaeologists unearthed ancient artifacts from the tomb.
- The detective unearthed new evidence that led to the suspect's arrest.
excavate
To unearth also means to excavate or dig up something from the ground, often in a scientific or archaeological context.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The team unearthed a dinosaur skeleton at the dig site.
- They unearthed the remains of an ancient civilization.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Archaeology
- In archaeology, unearthing artifacts can provide important insights into past cultures and civilizations.
- Excavations often reveal things like tools, pottery, and structures that offer clues about how ancient people lived.
Literature
- In literature, characters often 'unearth' secrets that lead to conflicts or resolutions in the story.
- The metaphorical use of 'unearth' can mean discovering truths about oneself or others, enhancing character development.
Science
- In paleontology, scientists 'unearth' dinosaur bones, helping them understand different species and the history of life on Earth.
- Uncovering ancient fossils can sometimes lead to groundbreaking theories about evolution and the environment.
Pop Culture
- Many blockbuster movies feature themes of unearthing ancient relics, such as 'Indiana Jones' series, highlighting adventure and discovery.
- The term is often used in media to describe the revelation of scandalous secrets in celebrity lives or politics.
Origin of 'unearth'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the Old English 'unearthan', which combines 'un-' (to reverse) and 'earth' (the ground).
- Its usage has evolved over centuries, initially referring mainly to physically digging things up, later expanding to metaphorically bringing to light hidden truths.
The word 'unearth' originated from the combination of 'un-' (meaning 'not') and 'earth' (referring to the ground or soil). It dates back to the 16th century and has been used to describe the act of discovering or excavating hidden or buried things.
See also: earth, earthen, earthenware, earthing, earthling, earthly, earthmover, earthquake, earthworm, earthy, unearthing.