How Do You Spell DARKNESS?

Pronunciation: [dˈɑːknəs] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "darkness" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable is "dɑːk," which represents the long "a" vowel sound in "dark." The second syllable is "nəs," which includes the schwa sound represented by "ə" and the "s" sound. Together, the word is pronounced as "dahrk-nuhs" with the stress on the first syllable. This word represents the absence of light and is commonly used in various forms of literature to create a sense of mystery or fear.

DARKNESS Meaning and Definition

  1. Darkness is a noun that can be defined as the absence or opposite of light, resulting in a state characterized by minimal or no illumination. It is the condition in which there is a lack of visible light, engulfing the surroundings in obscurity and impeding vision. Darkness can occur due to various factors such as the absence of natural or artificial light sources, the obstruction of light rays by objects, or natural phenomena like nightfall or eclipses.

    Metaphorically, darkness is often associated with the absence of knowledge, enlightenment, or moral virtue. It represents a state of ignorance, confusion, or wickedness. Symbolically, it is used to evoke feelings of fear, mystery, or the unknown, often found in literary, artistic, or religious contexts.

    A person entering darkness may experience feelings of unease, disorientation, and vulnerability, as visibility is compromised. Darkness can also influence emotional responses, heightening fear or instilling a sense of foreboding.

    In nature, darkness plays a crucial role in regulating various biological processes. It serves as a cue for the body to engage in rest and sleep, promoting restorative functions and synchronization with the day-night cycle. Some organisms are adapted to thrive in darkness, such as nocturnal animals, which have heightened senses to navigate and hunt during the absence of daylight.

    Overall, darkness is the state of being without light, both literally and metaphorically, with implications on vision, emotions, and the perception of the world.

  2. Absence of light; obscurity; ignorance, or state of ignorance; secrecy.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for DARKNESS *

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Other Common Misspellings for DARKNESS

Etymology of DARKNESS

The word "darkness" can be traced back to the Old English term "deorcnes", which was derived from the adjective "deorc", meaning "dark" or "obscure". The Old English word had Germanic origins and closely related forms in other Germanic languages, such as "dunkelheit" in German and "duisternis" in Dutch. These Germanic words share a common Proto-Germanic root "derkaz", which originally meant "hidden" or "concealed". Over time, the meaning evolved specifically to refer to the absence or lack of light, giving us the modern concept of darkness.

Similar spelling words for DARKNESS

Plural form of DARKNESS is DARKNESSES

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