The English language is full of words that are not commonly used in everyday conversations. One of these words is “athwart”. Athwart is a word that is not only rare but also has a unique meaning that is not easily understood by many. In this article, we will explore the meaning and origin of athwart, its synonyms and antonyms, as well as its associations.
Definitions
The word athwart is an adverb that means “across” or “from side to side.” It is often used to describe something that is in opposition or contrary to something else. For example, if a person’s opinion goes against the popular opinion, it can be said that their opinion is athwart the popular opinion.
Origin
The word athwart has its roots in Old English. It comes from the word “thweorh,” which means “transverse” or “oblique.” Over time, the word evolved into “athwart,” which has been in use since the 14th century.
Meaning in different dictionaries
In the Oxford English Dictionary, athwart is defined as “from side to side; across.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “across the direction or course of.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “in opposition to or blocking something.” The word is not commonly used in everyday conversations, but it is still present in many dictionaries.
Associations
Athwart is often associated with opposition or contradiction. It can also be used to describe something that is blocking or obstructing something else. For example, a tree that has fallen athwart a road is blocking the road and preventing people from passing through.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of athwart include “crosswise,” “diagonally,” “obliquely,” and “transversely.” These words are often used interchangeably with athwart to describe something that is going against the norm or obstructing something else.
Antonyms
Some antonyms of athwart include “along,” “in line with,” and “parallel.” These words describe something that is going in the same direction as something else, rather than going against it.
The same root words
The word athwart has several root words that are related to it. These include “thwart,” “thwartwise,” and “thwartly.” These words are all related to the idea of something blocking or obstructing something else.
Example Sentences
- The fallen tree lay athwart the road, blocking our path.
- His opinion was athwart the popular opinion of the group.
- The car skidded athwart the icy road, narrowly avoiding a collision.
- The fence was built athwart the property line, causing a dispute between the neighbors.
- The river flowed athwart the valley, dividing it into two distinct halves.