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Walls Meaning: Definition and Examples

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walls

[wΙ”lz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

physical structure

Walls are vertical structures that define and enclose an area, serving as barriers to separate spaces. They provide support, protect from external elements, and can also contribute to the aesthetic appeal of a building.

Synonyms

barrier, enclosure, fence, partition.

Examples of usage

  • The walls of the castle are several feet thick.
  • She painted the walls of her bedroom in a calming color.
  • He could hear the neighbors talking through the thin walls.
Context #2 | Noun

metaphorical concept

In a metaphorical sense, walls can refer to emotional or psychological barriers that prevent communication or connection between people. These walls may be built from past experiences, fears, or misunderstandings.

Synonyms

barrier, hindrance, obstacle, separation.

Examples of usage

  • He had built up walls to protect himself from getting hurt.
  • The couple struggled to break down the walls between them.
  • Her past traumas created invisible walls in her relationships.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The earliest walls were built by ancient civilizations for protection against enemies and wild animals.
  • In ancient China, walls were constructed not only for defense but also to mark territorial boundaries.
  • The Great Wall of China is one of the most famous structures, built over several centuries to protect against invasions.

Architecture

  • Walls can be made from a variety of materials, including bricks, wood, concrete, and glass, each serving different purposes.
  • Load-bearing walls support the structure above them, while non-load-bearing walls serve as dividers within spaces.
  • In modern architecture, the concept of using glass walls has become popular, blurring indoor and outdoor spaces.

Cultural Significance

  • Walls have been featured in art, like Michelangelo's frescoes on the walls of the Sistine Chapel, showcasing their beauty and importance.
  • The Berlin Wall famously separated East and West Berlin from 1961 until 1989, symbolizing the divide of ideology during the Cold War.
  • In many cultures, walls signify boundaries, but they can also represent barriers to connection and communication.

Psychology

  • Metaphorically, people talk about 'building walls' to describe emotional barriers that protect their feelings.
  • In therapy, clients might discuss how their 'walls' affect relationships and their ability to connect with others.
  • The concept of β€˜wall’ can represent defense mechanisms in psychology, as individuals create walls to shield themselves from hurt.

Literature

  • Walls often appear in literature as symbols of isolation, protection, or societal division, reflecting characters' internal struggles.
  • In Shakespeare's 'A Midsummer Night's Dream', a wall comically separates two lovers, illustrating both barriers and connections.
  • Many poems use walls to explore themes of confinement and freedom, showing the duality of structures in our lives.

Origin of 'walls'

The word 'wall' comes from Old English 'weall,' which has its origins in the Proto-Germanic term '*wallaz' and the Latin word 'vallum,' meaning 'a fence or rampart.' Historically, walls were constructed for defense, protection, and demarcating space. The use of walls dates back to ancient civilizations, such as the Great Wall of China, which was built to protect against invasions. Over the centuries, walls have evolved in purpose and construction, from simple mud or wooden barriers to complex brick and stone structures. In modern contexts, walls are not only functional but also play significant roles in architecture and design, influencing the flow of space and light in buildings. The metaphorical use of the term 'walls' has also developed, representing emotional barriers people create in their relationships.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,461, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.