Wrung Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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wrung
[rʌŋ ]
Definition
past tense
The word 'wrung' is the simple past form of the verb 'wring'. It refers to the action of twisting or squeezing something tightly to force liquid out of it or to distort its shape. This action is often used in contexts such as drying clothes or expressing emotions, where one might metaphorically wring their hands or heart in distress. It's associated with various applications where exertion is applied to remove moisture or manipulate objects.
Synonyms
extract, squeeze, twist, wrench.
Examples of usage
- She wrung the excess water from the towel.
- He wrung his hands nervously before the interview.
- The farmer wrung the wet cloth to dry it.
- The athlete wrung out his jersey after the match.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural References
- The expression 'wrung dry' refers to exhausting something completely, used in both literary and conversational contexts.
- In folk traditions, wringing out clothes was often seen as a communal activity that brought people together.
- 'Wrung' is featured in many poems and songs that express the theme of emotional struggle or hardship.
Psychology
- The act of wringing out clothing can symbolize the release of emotional tension, similar to how one might express feelings of stress or sorrow.
- Research has shown that physically expressing emotion through actions (like squeezing or wringing) can be therapeutic.
- People may subconsciously twist or wring their hands when feeling anxious, as a physical manifestation of their emotions.
Science
- Wringing out sponges and clothes is a practical demonstration of absorption and liquid dynamics in physics.
- The process of wringing can illustrate principles of pressure and fluid mechanics, showing how force affects the movement of liquids.
- In biology, wringing is analogous to how certain organisms extract moisture from their environment, emphasizing survival adaptations.
Literature
- Wringing is often used metaphorically in literature to describe emotional states, capturing the intensity of one's feelings.
- Author John Steinbeck utilized the imagery of wringing to portray the struggles of his characters, adding depth to their experiences.
- In poetry, the concept of getting 'wrung out' often reflects themes of despair and resilience, resonating with readers on a personal level.
Origin of 'wrung'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old English 'wringan', which means to twist or turn.
- It's a past tense form of 'wring', reflecting actions that involve twisting or squeezing.
- Historically, variations of the word have been used in various forms of English dialects, emphasizing its deep-rooted presence in the language.
The word 'wrung' originates from the Old English term 'wringan', which means 'to twist, turn, or wring'. It has cognates in several Germanic languages, including the Old High German 'wringan' and the Middle Dutch 'wringen', indicating a common linguistic ancestor. Over time, its meaning evolved to encompass a range of actions associated with twisting and compressing objects. The past participle form 'wrung' has been used since the 14th century, particularly in contexts relating to the manipulation of cloth or materials to remove liquid. As language developed, 'wring' took on metaphorical meanings as well, such as expressing emotional strain or tension, showcasing the versatility of the term in both physical and emotional contexts. The evolution of 'wrung' reflects broader changes in both language and cultural practices regarding work and emotional expression.