Pronunciation: [ɐfˈɑː] (IPA) 
The word "afar" is spelled exactly as it sounds, with two syllables and a clear "a" sound at the beginning, followed by the "f" sound and then the "ar" sound. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is /əˈfɑr/. The first syllable is pronounced with the "uh" sound, and the second syllable has the "ar" sound, as in "car." This word is often used to describe something that is at a distance, such as "I can see the mountains afar."
Afar, an adverb, refers to a distant or remote location in space or time. It means being at a considerable distance away or far off in relation to a specific point of reference. It is often used to describe an object, person, or place that is situated far away. When used in a figurative sense, afar pertains to something that is not easily reachable or attainable, hence being distant in terms of achievement, understanding, or connection.
In a spatial context, afar is commonly employed to denote objects or destinations that are separated by great physical distance. It implies a sense of detachment or isolation from the observer. In a temporal sense, afar refers to events or situations that occurred in the distant past or are projected to happen in the distant future.
The term afar can also express a psychological or emotional distance between individuals or groups. It signifies a lack of closeness, intimacy, or familiarity. This can be seen in phrases such as "from afar," which implies observing or perceiving something from a distance without direct involvement or engagement.
Ultimately, afar encapsulates the notion of distance, whether actual or metaphorical, and highlights the spatial, temporal, and conceptual aspects of being remote or separated from a particular point of reference.
• At a distance.
• At, to, or from a great distance.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word afar originated from the Old English word of feor which means from far. It is a combination of the preposition of and the adjective feor meaning far. Over time, of feor was shortened and evolved into afar.
