hoar etymology

Etymology:

  • Old English "hār" ("hoary, gray, white")
  • Proto-Germanic "hairaz" (gray, white)
  • Proto-Indo-European "ǵʰērós" (gray, old)

Meaning:

  • Having a grayish-white or whitish appearance
  • Covered with a fine, soft, white substance resembling frost or powdery snow

Origin:

The word "hoar" comes from the Proto-Indo-European root "ǵʰērós," which also gave rise to the English words "gray" and "grizzled." The original meaning of the root was "old" or "gray-haired."

Over time, the meaning of "hoar" narrowed to refer specifically to a grayish-white or whitish appearance. This usage is first attested in Old English, and it has continued to be used in English ever since.

"Hoar" is often used to describe the appearance of hair, beards, or other natural objects that have turned white or gray with age. It can also be used to describe the appearance of frost or snow.

hoar relate terms

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