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Whiskery Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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whiskery

[หˆwษชskษ™ri ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

appearance, texture

The term 'whiskery' is often used to describe something that is characterized by a rough, stiff, or bristly appearance, resembling the texture of whiskers. This adjective can apply to various subjects, including facial hair, animal fur, or even certain types of plants. It suggests a sense of coarseness or an unkempt quality, often evoking an image of wildness or naturalness. In animals, whiskery fur is typically associated with species that have prominent whiskers, enhancing their sensory perception.

Synonyms

bristly, hairy, rough, spiky.

Examples of usage

  • The old man's whiskery beard made him look wise.
  • The whiskery fur of the cat stood on end when it was startled.
  • I admired the whiskery texture of the wildflower's petals.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • Whiskers, also known as vibrissae, are sensory hairs found on many animals, providing important tactile feedback about their surroundings.
  • Cats and dogs use their whiskers to gauge the width of openings and detect nearby objects, showcasing their importance in survival.

Pop Culture

  • In animation, whiskery characters like cats often have exaggerated, humorous whiskers that enhance their personality and traits.
  • Films featuring animal protagonists frequently emphasize whiskers as a cute or wise attribute, appealing to audiences' affection for fluffy animals.

Literature

  • In poetry and children's stories, whiskers are often described to convey charm, playfulness, or the essence of a character, especially in animals.
  • Classic literature, such as Beatrix Potter's tales, features whiskered characters that represent innocence and curiosity, captivating readers.

Origin of 'whiskery'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'whiskery' comes from 'whisker,' which shares roots with the Old English word 'hwisc,' meaning 'to move quickly.'
  • Originally used to describe facial hair, the term has evolved to encompass any kind of long hair or bristles.

The word 'whiskery' is derived from the noun 'whisker,' which dates back to the late 14th century. The term 'whisker' itself is believed to come from the Middle English word 'whisker,' meaning a hair or bristle on the face, particularly around the chin or cheek. This word likely has its roots in the Old English term 'hwiscan,' which described the act of whisking or moving quickly. Over time, the adjective form 'whiskery' emerged to describe the quality associated with whiskers, emphasizing their texture and appearance. The application of this adjective has expanded into various areas, including literature and everyday conversation, often used to paint a vivid picture of something's rough or furry characteristics.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,529, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.