Wintertime Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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wintertime
[ˈwɪntərtaɪm ]
Definition
season of year
Wintertime refers to the coldest season of the year, occurring between autumn and spring. It is characterized by shorter days and longer nights, as well as cold weather, snow, and frost in many regions. People often engage in winter sports and activities during this time.
Synonyms
cold season, frosty period, winter.
Examples of usage
- We love to go skiing during wintertime.
- The days are shorter in wintertime.
- Wintertime is perfect for cozying up with a book.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- Many cultures have festivals in wintertime, like Christmas and Hanukkah, which celebrate themes of light and community during the darkest days of the year.
- In some traditions, seasonal foods such as hearty stews and pies are beloved during winter for their warming qualities.
Science
- The angle of the Earth's tilt causes wintertime in one hemisphere when it's summer in another, showing the beauty of our planet's diversity.
- During winter, many animals enter a state of hibernation, conserving energy and resources until warmer weather returns.
Literature
- Wintertime is often depicted as a time for reflection and hibernation in poetry and stories, symbolizing both hardship and inner growth.
- Classic literature often uses winter as a metaphor for isolation or despair, making the eventual arrival of spring even more poignant.
Art
- Artists like Monet and Caspar Friedrich have beautifully captured winter's serene landscapes and stark beauty in their paintings.
- Wintertime often inspires themes of coziness and warmth in art, with depictions of fires, families, and joyful activities against a snowy backdrop.
Origin of 'wintertime'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'winter' comes from the Old English 'wintar,' which is related to the German word 'Winter' and the Latin 'hibernus' meaning 'of winter.'
- Historically, 'winter' referred to the time of year when days are shortest and temperatures drop, reflecting survival challenges in ancient times.
The word 'wintertime' is derived from the Middle English term 'winer', which itself comes from the Old English 'winter'. The origins of 'winter' trace back to the Proto-Germanic *wintruz and the Proto-Indo-European *h₁en- meaning 'to be wet' or 'to flow'. As such, winter was initially associated with the flowing of icy water. Over time, the term evolved in various languages, and 'wintertime' emerged in English in the 14th century to specifically denote the season when winter occurs. The word has maintained its meaning through the centuries, emphasizing the distinct period of cold weather that affects many parts of the world.