The word aeolian is an adjective that is not commonly used in everyday language. However, it is a term that is frequently used in scientific and technical fields. It has a specific meaning that is important to understand in these contexts. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of aeolian, its origin, and its associations.
Definitions
Aeolian refers to anything that is related to or caused by the wind. It is often used to describe geological formations that are shaped by wind erosion or deposition. It can also be used to describe the sound produced by wind instruments, such as flutes or organs.
In music, aeolian is a mode or scale that is also known as the natural minor scale. It is characterized by a sad or melancholic sound and is often used in classical and folk music.
Origin
The word aeolian comes from the Greek god of the wind, Aeolus. In Greek mythology, Aeolus was the keeper of the winds and had the power to control them. The word aeolian was first used in English in the 17th century.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of aeolian is consistent across different dictionaries. It is defined as relating to or caused by the wind. Some dictionaries also include the musical definition of aeolian as a mode or scale.
Associations
Aeolian is often associated with geological formations, such as sand dunes, that are shaped by wind erosion or deposition. It is also associated with wind instruments and music that has a melancholic sound.
Synonyms
Synonyms of aeolian include windblown, wind-formed, and wind-sculpted.
Antonyms
Antonyms of aeolian include non-wind-formed and non-wind-sculpted.
The same root words
There are no significant root words associated with aeolian.
Example Sentences
- The aeolian erosion of the sandstone created beautiful rock formations.
- The aeolian sound of the flute was hauntingly beautiful.
- The aeolian mode is often used in sad or melancholic music.