Winter Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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winter
[ˈwɪn.tər ]
Definitions
time of year
Winter is the coldest season of the year in polar and temperate zones. It occurs after autumn and before spring. The days are shorter and the nights are longer during winter.
Synonyms
chilly season, cold season, frosty season.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| winter |
Used to describe the coldest season of the year, typically from December to February in the Northern Hemisphere.
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| cold season |
Used to describe a period associated with generally cold weather; often used in a medical context to talk about an increase in colds and flu.
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| chilly season |
Used informally to describe a time of year when the weather is cold but not necessarily extreme; suggests a mildly cold temperature.
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| frosty season |
Used to describe a period of harsh, freezing temperatures and frost; suggests a more severe coldness compared to 'chilly season'.
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Examples of usage
- The trees are bare in winter.
- We usually get snow in winter.
- I love to drink hot chocolate in winter.
period of dormancy
In agriculture, winter is the period when crops are not growing actively. It is a time of dormancy for many plants and animals.
Synonyms
dormant period, hibernation season, inactive season.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| winter |
This word is used to describe the coldest season of the year between autumn and spring. It commonly refers to weather, activities, and holidays associated with this season.
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| dormant period |
This phrase is often used in scientific contexts, especially in biology and botany, to describe a phase in which an organism (plant or animal) temporarily ceases growth and reduces metabolic activity.
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| hibernation season |
This term specifically refers to the time of year when certain animals enter hibernation, a state of inactivity and metabolic depression. It’s mainly used in zoology.
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| inactive season |
This is a more general term that can be used to describe any time period when activity levels are reduced. It is less specific than 'hibernation season' or 'dormant period' and can apply to various contexts, such as sports, business, or natural cycles.
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Examples of usage
- The farmers prepare for winter by storing food.
- Bears hibernate in winter to survive the cold.
to spend the winter in a particular place
To winter somewhere means to spend the winter in a particular place. It is often used in relation to birds or people who migrate seasonally.
Synonyms
hibernate, migrate, stay for the winter.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| winter |
Can also be used as a verb to describe the act of spending the winter in a particular place.
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| migrate |
Often used for animals, especially birds, moving from one region to another to escape the cold weather. Can also be used for people changing locations during the winter.
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| hibernate |
Typically refers to animals that sleep through the winter to survive the cold weather and lack of food. Can also be used metaphorically for humans taking a long break during winter.
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| stay for the winter |
Indicates someone remaining in a specific location throughout the winter season, as opposed to moving or traveling.
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Examples of usage
- The robins winter in the south.
- We usually winter in Florida.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- Many cultures celebrate winter festivals, such as Yule in Scandinavia, which celebrates the winter solstice and the return of the sun.
- In Japan, winter signifies the time for enjoying 'koyo', which involves seeing beautiful winter landscapes and enjoying seasonal foods.
- The winter season inspires numerous arts, from the serene paintings of snowy landscapes to festive music, like Tchaikovsky's 'The Nutcracker'.
Science
- During winter, animals have adapted behaviors; some hibernate, while others migrate to warmer climates to survive.
- The tilt of the Earth on its axis creates winter in some regions as the sun's rays hit less directly, resulting in colder temperatures.
- Snow acts as an insulating layer for the ground, protecting plants and certain animals from extreme cold.
Psychology
- Winter can influence moods; some individuals experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which may result in feelings of sadness or lethargy.
- The cozy nature of winter often encourages bonding and family gatherings, which can promote feelings of happiness and well-being.
- The shorter daylight hours can lead to changes in sleep patterns, as many people find it harder to wake up and stay alert.
Literature
- In literature, winter often symbolizes death, introspection, and the passage of time, serving as a backdrop for many poignant narratives.
- Authors like C.S. Lewis used winter as a theme in works like 'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe', where it represents a time of oppression and longing for hope.
- Poetry frequently features winter imagery, capturing its beauty and starkness, with poets like Robert Frost often reflecting on its deeper meanings.
Origin of 'winter'
Main points about word origin
- The word derives from Old English 'winter', which is related to the German 'Winter' and the Dutch 'winter'.
- In ancient times, the season was linked to the idea of 'rest' in nature, as trees and plants seemed to sleep until spring.
- Winter was often referred to as a time of dormancy, both in agriculture and animal behavior, emphasizing survival.
The word 'winter' has its origins in Old English 'winter', which is related to Dutch 'winter' and German 'Winter'. It is believed to have come from a Proto-Germanic word meaning 'wet' or 'water'. The association with cold and wet conditions led to the word being used to describe the coldest season of the year. Winter has been a significant season in many cultures, often associated with festivals, holidays, and traditions.