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Wast: meaning, definitions and examples

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wast

 

[weɪst ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

use badly

To waste means to use something inefficiently or without purpose. This often refers to time, resources, or opportunities that are not utilized effectively. When someone wastes something, they do not maximize its value, which can lead to consequences such as loss or regret. The act of wasting can be a habitual behavior, impacting one's productivity and overall well-being.

Synonyms

dissipate, employ inefficiently, misuse, squander.

Examples of usage

  • Don't waste your time on unimportant tasks.
  • She wasted her money on unnecessary items.
  • The company is known for wasting resources.
  • He regrets wasting such precious moments.
Context #2 | Noun

unused material

Waste refers to materials or substances that are discarded after their intended or practical use. This can include organic waste, industrial waste, and household refuse. Waste management is a critical aspect of environmental conservation, focusing on the reduction and proper disposal of waste to minimize pollution and preserve resources. Understanding waste helps in promoting recycling and sustainable practices.

Synonyms

garbage, litter, refuse, rubbish.

Examples of usage

  • The landfill was full of plastic waste.
  • Food waste is a significant environmental issue.
  • He sorted the recyclables from the waste.
  • They are developing technologies to reduce electronic waste.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • Derived from Old English 'wæst', meaning 'to be' or 'to exist', showing deep historical roots in the English language.
  • The word appears as a second-person singular form in the past tense of 'be', highlighting its use in older texts and literature.
  • It reflects the evolution of English, transitioning from Old English to Middle English and then to modern forms.

Literature

  • Often found in classic literature, authors like Shakespeare used 'wast' to give their works an archaic feel and depth.
  • Poets like John Milton incorporated 'wast' in their verses to create rhythm and evoke emotions from a bygone era.
  • The term adds a musical quality to poetry, reminding readers of a time when English was more flexible in its expressions.

Cultural References

  • The use of 'wast' in religious texts and historical writings connects readers to the past and cultural heritage.
  • In many adaptations of classic works, characters often use 'wast' to portray a sense of history or authenticity.
  • The term is sometimes featured in modern novels set in historical contexts, prompting curiosity about its meaning.

Linguistic Evolution

  • Shows how the English language has simplified over time, moving away from forms like 'wast' to using 'were' or 'was'.
  • The decline in the use of 'wast' reflects broader changes in grammar and vocabulary that have occurred in English-speaking societies.
  • It's a reminder of how language evolves and how some words fall out of common usage, only to remain in specific contexts.

Historical Usage

  • In early English law, 'wast' was sometimes associated with waste or misuse of property or resources, further highlighting its roots in concerns for sustainability.
  • The word appears in legal documents and land grants in medieval England, showing its historical significance in property discussions.
  • Its usage demonstrates how language can reflect social norms and values over centuries, especially around ownership and care.

Translations

Translations of the word "wast" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desperdício

🇮🇳 बर्बाद

🇩🇪 Abfall

🇮🇩 sampah

🇺🇦 відходи

🇵🇱 odpadki

🇯🇵 廃棄物

🇫🇷 déchet

🇪🇸 desperdicio

🇹🇷 atık

🇰🇷 폐기물

🇸🇦 نفايات

🇨🇿 odpad

🇸🇰 odpad

🇨🇳 废物

🇸🇮 odpad

🇮🇸 úrgangur

🇰🇿 қалдық

🇬🇪 ნარჩენები

🇦🇿 təkrar istifadə

🇲🇽 desperdicio

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,365, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.