Unhurriedly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unhurriedly

[ʌnˈhɜːrɪdli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

manner of doing

Unhurriedly means doing something in a relaxed and unpressured way, at a slow or leisurely pace. It conveys a sense of calm and allows for lingering over tasks without the stress of urgency.

Synonyms

calmly, deliberately, leisurely, slowly.

Examples of usage

  • He walked unhurriedly through the park, enjoying the scenery.
  • They sipped their coffee unhurriedly, savoring each sip.
  • She unhurriedly finished her work, taking time to ensure everything was perfect.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Research shows that an unhurried pace can reduce stress and promote better mental health, aligning with mindfulness practices.
  • Slower actions can lead to improved focus and creativity, allowing for deeper thinking and better problem-solving.
  • In our fast-paced world, taking time to engage in activities unhurriedly can enhance overall happiness and satisfaction.

Cultural Insights

  • In many cultures, such as in Mediterranean regions, meals are enjoyed unhurriedly, emphasizing connection and appreciation over speed.
  • Countries like Japan celebrate a slower pace in certain traditions, notably in tea ceremonies where calmness is central to the experience.
  • Literature often romanticizes the idea of living unhurriedly, portraying characters finding joy in simple pleasures rather than rushing through life.

Literature

  • The theme of an unhurried life is prevalent in classical literature, representing a break from societal pressures, which is often depicted in the works of authors like Thoreau.
  • Poems that explore nature frequently illustrate unhurried moments, using imagery of slow moving rivers or gentle breezes to evoke tranquility.
  • Contemporary authors often contrast unhurried characters against fast-paced settings to highlight the beauty of taking one's time.

Health and Wellness

  • Practicing activities unhurriedly, such as yoga or meditation, is known to lower blood pressure and enhance emotional well-being.
  • Experts recommend incorporating unhurried breaks during busy schedules to rejuvenate the mind and maintain productivity.
  • A growing trend in wellness retreats focuses on slowing down—you might find workshops that teach unhurried living techniques.

Origin of 'unhurriedly'

Main points about word origin

  • The word is formed by adding the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' to the word 'hurried,' which comes from the Middle English word 'hurien,' meaning 'to rush.'
  • The first known use of 'unhurriedly' dates back to the early 19th century, reflecting a growing cultural appreciation for leisure and relaxation.
  • Notably, languages like French and Spanish also have terms that convey a similar sense of calmness and leisure, showing common human values across cultures.

The word 'unhurriedly' is derived from the root word 'hurry', which originates from the Late Middle English term 'hurri', possibly a blend of the Scottish term 'hurrey', meaning to move quickly, and the Old Norse 'hurra', meaning to rush or to agitate. The prefix 'un-' is a negation that indicates the absence of urgency or speed. Thus, 'unhurriedly' encompasses the idea of moving or acting without haste or pressure. The adverb form came into use around the late 19th century as the English language evolved to include more nuanced descriptors of human behavior and attitude towards time. It embodies a growing appreciation for mindfulness and a slower pace of life, especially in contrast to the fast-paced world we often find ourselves in today. Unhurriedness reflects a lifestyle choice, prioritizing quality over quantity in experiences.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,898, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.