Winglike Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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winglike

[ˈwɪŋlaɪk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

similar to wings

The term 'winglike' describes something that resembles or has characteristics similar to wings. This descriptor can be used in various contexts, such as biology to describe certain animal structures or in design to refer to shapes that evoke the form of wings. Winglike features are often associated with grace, freedom, and flight, making them a popular motif in art and architecture. Examples may include the fins of certain fish or the elongated shapes found in certain architectural styles.

Synonyms

aerial, feathery, papery, winged.

Examples of usage

  • The winglike fins of the fish helped it navigate swiftly through the water.
  • The architect designed the building with winglike structures to create a dynamic appearance.
  • She created a costume that featured winglike extensions on the sleeves.
  • The butterfly had delicate, winglike patterns on its wings.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Biology

  • Many animals have winglike structures that help them glide or float, such as flying squirrels or certain insects.
  • In botany, some plants feature winglike seed structures that aid in dispersal by wind.

Art and Design

  • Artists often use winglike designs to convey movement and elegance in paintings or sculptures.
  • In architecture, winglike elements might symbolize freedom and elevation, often seen in modern building designs.

Literature

  • Winglike imagery often appears in poetry to symbolize freedom or aspiration, suggesting a desire to rise above challenges.
  • Characters in stories sometimes gain winglike qualities to represent transformation or personal growth.

Cultural Symbolism

  • In many cultures, wings symbolize protection and elevation, often representing spiritual journeys.
  • Winglike motifs are common in various cultural artifacts as symbols of hope and freedom.

Origin of 'winglike'

Main points about word origin

  • The word combines 'wing,' which comes from the Old English 'wenge,' and 'like,' a term indicating similarity.
  • Use of 'like' as a suffix can be traced back to Middle English, when it was commonly added to describe similarities.

The word 'winglike' is derived from the combination of 'wing' and the suffix '-like', which suggests resemblance. The word 'wing' has its origins in the Old English 'wenge', meaning 'a limb or structure that enables flight', and can be traced back to Proto-Germanic and Proto-Indo-European roots associated with movement and flight. The suffix '-like' comes from Old English '-lic', meaning 'of the kind or manner of'. Thus, 'winglike' literally translates to 'of the kind of a wing', capturing the essence of similarity and resemblance to wings. The usage of 'winglike' in various fields, such as biology, art, and design, reflects society's fascination with the concepts of flight and freedom, leading to its adoption in modern English to describe anything that evokes the image or characteristics of wings.