Wrinkle: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Old English 'wrincian', which means to twist or to fold.
• In the 14th century, the term began to refer specifically to lines or folds, particularly in cloth and skin.

Science

• As people age, skin loses collagen and elasticity, leading to wrinkles.
• Environmental factors like sun exposure and smoking can accelerate wrinkle formation by damaging skin tissues.

Psychology

• Research shows that people often associate visible wrinkles with aging, which can impact self-esteem.
• Cultural perceptions of aging vary, with some societies viewing wrinkles as signs of wisdom rather than age.

Art & Literature

• Wrinkles can symbolize the passage of time in literature, often associated with experience and memory.
• Artists may depict wrinkles to convey emotions or character depth, illustrating a person's life story on their face.

Pop Culture

• In various media, characters with prominent wrinkles are often portrayed as wise and experienced, reinforcing the stereotype of older individuals.
• Beauty trends often promote anti-aging products that claim to reduce the visibility of wrinkles, highlighting societal obsessions with youth.

Positioned at #21,369, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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