The word "foreshorten" is spelled with the phonetic transcription "/fɔːˈʃɔːtən/". The "o" sound is pronounced as "ɔː", while the "e" at the end of the word is silent. The "t" and "en" sounds are combined into a single syllable, pronounced as "tən". The stress is on the second syllable, signified by the apostrophe in the transcription. Foreshorten means to shorten or compress a three-dimensional object in a two-dimensional medium, such as drawing or painting.
Foreshorten is a verb that refers to the act of representing or perceiving an object or figure in an abbreviated or condensed manner in a two-dimensional format, such as a painting or a drawing. It involves giving the illusion of depth and distance by deliberately distorting or shortening the proportions of an object or figure based on its angle or position in relation to the viewer.
When an object or figure is depicted in a foreshortened manner, it appears as though it is compressed or compressed into the picture plane, making it seem closer or more distant than it actually is. This technique is commonly used in visual arts, especially in perspective drawings, to create a sense of depth and realism.
Foreshortening requires a solid understanding of perspective, angles, and proportions, as it involves accurately representing the way objects or figures appear when viewed from a specific point. Artists often use foreshortening to emphasize certain aspects or evoke a specific emotional response in their works.
In summary, to foreshorten means to depict an object or figure in a two-dimensional representation by distorting its proportions based on its angle or position, to provide an illusion of depth and distance. It is a technique frequently used in the visual arts to convey realism and create a sense of perspective.
To represent figures as they appear when viewed obliquely.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "foreshorten" is derived from the combination of two elements: "fore-" and "-shorten".
The prefix "fore-" comes from the Old English word "fore", meaning "before" or "in front of". It can also be traced back to the Proto-Germanic root "*fura". In this context, "fore-" suggests the idea of something being presented or appearing in a way that is closer or in front of the viewer's eyes.
The verb "-shorten" is derived from the Old English word "scortian", which means "to make shorter" or "to become shorter". It can be connected to the Proto-Germanic "*skurtijan", which carries a similar meaning.
When combined, "fore-" and "-shorten" indicate the act of making something appear shorter or compressed by depicting it in a way that emphasizes its foreshortened or visually shortened perspective.