Ashes are a common substance that we encounter in our daily lives, but what exactly are they? Ashes can have a variety of meanings depending on the context in which they are used. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of ashes, their origin, and their associations.
Definitions
Ashes are the powdery residue that is left behind after something has been burned. This residue is composed of the minerals and other materials that were present in the original substance, and can vary in color and texture depending on the source. Ashes can also refer to the remains of a person or animal that have been cremated.
Origin
The word “ashes” comes from the Old English word “æsce,” which means “ash tree.” The ash tree was considered sacred in many cultures, and its wood was used for making tools, weapons, and furniture. The tree was also associated with the Norse god Odin, who was said to have hung himself from an ash tree in order to gain knowledge.
Meaning in different dictionaries
In the Oxford English Dictionary, ashes are defined as “the powdery residue left after the burning of a substance, especially wood or coal.” Merriam-Webster defines ashes as “the residue that remains when something is burned,” and also notes that ashes can refer to “the remains of a cremated body.”
Associations
Ashes are often associated with death and mourning, as they are the remains of a person or animal that has been cremated. They can also be associated with destruction and loss, as they are the residue left behind after something has been burned. In some cultures, ashes are used in religious ceremonies or as a symbol of purification.
Synonyms
Synonyms for ashes include cinders, embers, residue, and soot.
Antonyms
Antonyms for ashes include whole, intact, and unburned.
The same root words
Words that share the same root as ashes include ash, ashtray, and ashcan.
Example Sentences
- After the fire was put out, all that remained were the ashes of the building.
- The ashes of her beloved cat were scattered in the garden.
- He sifted through the ashes of the campfire, looking for any remaining embers.
- The urn containing her father’s ashes sat on the mantelpiece.
- The volcano spewed ash and lava into the sky, causing widespread destruction.