BLACK TRIANGLE Meaning and
Definition
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A black triangle refers to a symbol or icon consisting of an equilateral triangle that is filled with black color. It is a simple geometric shape with three equal sides and angles of 60 degrees each. The term "black" refers to the color of the triangle, which is typically depicted as solid black.
This symbol holds various meanings depending on the context in which it is used. In a linguistic sense, the black triangle is often employed as a diacritic to indicate that a word is unattested or of uncertain origin in historical linguistics. This usage is particularly prominent in the field of Indo-European studies.
Outside the realm of language, the black triangle holds additional interpretations across different domains. In the realm of activism and social justice, the black triangle has historical significance as a symbol associated with the persecution of certain groups, particularly during the Nazi regime in World War II. During this period, black triangles were used to mark individuals as social outcasts, including political dissidents, homosexuals, and other marginalized groups.
To summarize, a black triangle can be understood as a geometric symbol resembling an equilateral triangle filled with black color. Its meaning varies depending on the specific domain in which it is used, ranging from linguistic clarification to historical symbolism associated with oppression and activism.
Etymology of BLACK TRIANGLE
The etymology of the word "black triangle" can be traced back to two main sources:
1. Nazi Germany: The term "black triangle" was initially used in Nazi Germany during World War II as a symbol to identify certain categories of prisoners in concentration camps. These prisoners, primarily women, were labeled with an inverted black triangle badge to mark them as "asocial" or "work-shy". The badge served as a means of stigmatization and discrimination.
2. Lesbian-Identified Women: In the late 20th century, the term "black triangle" was reappropriated by the lesbian community as a symbol of resistance and pride. It became a symbol particularly associated with lesbian-identified women who were imprisoned or persecuted by the Nazis for their sexual orientation. The black triangle was altered to be worn upright rather than inverted, symbolizing a reclaiming of identity and LGBT resistance.
Idioms with the word BLACK TRIANGLE
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black triangle
A mysterious, unidentified flying object (UFO) often described as a triangular-shaped aircraft that is perceived as black or dark in color.
