“(As) pure as the driven snow” is a common phrase that is often used to describe someone who is completely innocent and free from any wrongdoing. It is a poetic expression that has been used for centuries and is still popular today. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, and meaning of this phrase, as well as its associations, synonyms, and antonyms.
Definitions
The phrase “(as) pure as the driven snow” means that someone or something is completely pure, innocent, and free from any wrongdoing or impurities. It is often used to describe a person’s character or actions, but can also refer to the appearance of something. The phrase can be used in both a positive and negative context, depending on the situation.
Origin
The origin of the phrase “(as) pure as the driven snow” can be traced back to the 16th century. The word “driven” refers to snow that has been blown by the wind, creating a smooth and unblemished surface. This pure and untouched snow was seen as a symbol of innocence and purity, and the phrase became a popular expression to describe someone who possessed these qualities.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the phrase “(as) pure as the driven snow” means “completely innocent and moral.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “completely free from impurities or flaws; morally or spiritually pure.”
Associations
The phrase “(as) pure as the driven snow” is often associated with purity, innocence, and goodness. It is commonly used to describe someone who is honest, trustworthy, and virtuous. The phrase is also associated with winter and snow, as well as with nature and the outdoors.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for “(as) pure as the driven snow” include:
- Spotless.
- Immaculate.
- Untainted.
- Unblemished.
- Unsullied.
- Wholesome.
Antonyms
Some antonyms for “(as) pure as the driven snow” include:
- Corrupt.
- Impure.
- Tainted.
- Flawed.
- Sinful.
- Immoral.
The same root words
The phrase “(as) pure as the driven snow” is made up of several root words. “Pure” comes from the Latin word “purus,” meaning clean or unmixed. “Driven” comes from the Old English word “drifan,” meaning to drive or push. “Snow” comes from the Old English word “snaw,” meaning snow.
Example Sentences
- “She was as pure as the driven snow, never once telling a lie.”
- “The snow on the mountaintop was as pure as the driven snow, untouched by human hands.”
- “He claimed to be as pure as the driven snow, but we all knew he had a dark past.”
- “The wedding dress was as white as the driven snow, a symbol of the bride’s purity.”
- “The children played in the snow, creating footprints in the once-pure driven snow.”
“(As) pure as the driven snow” is a poetic expression that has been used for centuries to describe someone or something that is completely pure and innocent. Its origins can be traced back to the 16th century, and it is still a popular phrase today. The phrase is often associated with purity, innocence, and goodness, and has several synonyms and antonyms.