Ashen is a word that is often used to describe something that is pale, gray or colorless. It is a word that is often associated with sadness, death, and decay. In this article, we will explore the meaning of ashen, its origin, and its usage in different contexts.
Definitions
The word ashen can be defined as something that is pale, gray or colorless. It can also refer to something that is made of ash or resembles ash. Ashen can also describe a person’s complexion, which appears pale or sickly.
Origin
The word ashen has its origin in the Old English word “æsce”, which means ash. It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word “askon”, which means ash tree. The word ashen has been used in the English language since the 14th century.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, ashen means “resembling ashes”. The Oxford English Dictionary defines ashen as “pale or gray in color, especially because of illness or age”.
Associations
The word ashen is often associated with sadness, death, and decay. It is often used to describe a person’s complexion when they are sick or dying. Ashen can also be associated with the aftermath of a fire or a volcanic eruption.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of ashen include pale, gray, colorless, washed-out, wan, and pallid.
Antonyms
Antonyms of ashen include vibrant, colorful, bright, and vivid.
The same root words
The same root words as ashen include ash, ash tree, and ash-colored.
Example Sentences
- The ashen sky signaled the coming storm.
- Her ashen complexion made her look sickly.
- The remains of the fire left the building ashen and charred.
- He had an ashen expression on his face when he heard the news.
- The ashen landscape after the volcanic eruption was eerie and desolate.