Yellowing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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yellowing
[ˈjɛloʊɪŋ ]
Definition
leaves
The process of leaves turning yellow due to various factors such as lack of nutrients, disease, or aging.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| yellowing |
This term is often used to describe the process where something turns yellow, often referring to leaves, paper, or teeth. It's generally neutral in tone.
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| discoloring |
Discoloring is used to describe a change in color that generally indicates damage, staining, or aging. It can be used for various objects such as fabric, skin, or walls and has a slightly negative connotation.
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| fading |
This term refers to something losing its color or becoming less bright over time. It can apply to fabric, photographs, paint, or memories and often suggests deterioration.
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| wilting |
This term is specifically used to describe plants or flowers losing their vitality, drooping, and often changing color. It generally has a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The leaves of the plant are yellowing due to lack of sunlight.
- Yellowing of the leaves may indicate a need for fertilization.
- Make sure to water the plant regularly to prevent yellowing of the leaves.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Nature
- In nature, leaves turn yellow in the fall as chlorophyll (the green pigment) breaks down, signaling the change of seasons.
- Certain flowers also exhibit yellowing as part of their natural life cycle, often indicating they are past their prime.
Cultural Symbolism
- Yellow often represents caution, seen in road signs and warning labels, which may relate to the idea of something that is changing.
- In various cultures, yellow can symbolize aging wisdom, representing the journeys of life and the stories that come with time.
Art and Literature
- In art, works can become yellowed over time due to the aging process of the materials used, affecting their value and aesthetic.
- Literary references often use yellowing pages as a metaphor for forgotten knowledge and the passage of time, highlighting nostalgia.
Science
- In chemistry, yellowing of materials can indicate oxidation or degradation, often seen in plastics and textiles over time.
- Exposure to UV light is a common cause of yellowing in many synthetic materials, emphasizing the effects of environmental factors.
Origin of 'yellowing'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'yellowing' comes from the Old English word 'geolu', which means yellow, referring to the color.
- It has evolved from its root forms in various languages, all denoting a similar shade that can symbolize warmth and caution.
The word 'yellowing' is a gerund form of the verb 'yellow.' The term 'yellow' dates back to the Old English word 'geolu,' which is related to the Old High German 'gelou,' both meaning 'yellow.' The process of yellowing is a natural occurrence in plant life cycles and can also be influenced by environmental factors.