HAIRLINE CRACK Meaning and
Definition
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A hairline crack refers to a very fine, shallow fracture or fissure that occurs on the surface of a material, particularly in solid objects such as ceramics, metals, or glass. It denotes a minute separation or discontinuity in the structure, typically resembling a thin strand or thread, hence the comparison to the fineness of a hair. Hairline cracks are often barely visible to the naked eye and can be difficult to detect without close examination.
These cracks are typically caused by various factors, including stress, temperature fluctuations, or aging. They typically propagate from a single point, gradually extending and branching out, but without significantly affecting the overall integrity or functionality of the object. Due to their delicate nature, hairline cracks are generally considered superficial and are not a major cause for concern. However, if ignored or left untreated, hairline cracks can eventually worsen over time and develop into larger, more significant fractures.
In certain contexts, the term "hairline crack" is also used metaphorically to describe subtle weaknesses, flaws, or imperfections in non-physical entities such as relationships, systems, or plans. This metaphor emphasizes the idea that even the tiniest crack has the potential to grow and cause significant problems if not properly addressed or managed.
Common Misspellings for HAIRLINE CRACK
- gairline crack
- bairline crack
- nairline crack
- jairline crack
- uairline crack
- yairline crack
- hzirline crack
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- haorline crack
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- haieline crack
- haidline crack
- haifline crack
- haitline crack
Etymology of HAIRLINE CRACK
The word "hairline crack" is a compound phrase that combines two separate words: "hairline" and "crack".
The term "hairline" originated from the Old English word "heaer", meaning "hair". In the 17th century, it was used metaphorically to describe something as thin, fine, and narrow, resembling the width of a strand of hair. Over time, the term "hairline" evolved into a descriptive adjective for cracks or fractures, referring to their very narrow and barely visible appearance.
The word "crack" has its roots in Middle English, from the Old English word "cracian", meaning "to resound". It initially referred to a loud snapping sound or a sharp noise. Gradually, the term expanded its usage to describe a physical split, fissure, or break in an object's surface.
