Pronunciation: [ɡɹˈə͡ʊ dˈɪm] (IPA) 
The phrase "grow dim" is pronounced /ɡroʊ dɪm/. The "grow" sound is represented by the grapheme "g-r-o-w," which makes the "ɡroʊ" sound. The "dim" sound is spelled with the letters "d-i-m," but pronounced as "dɪm." The "i" in "dim" makes the "ɪ" sound, which is a shorter and more closed vowel sound than the "o" in "grow." Overall, the spelling of "grow dim" reflects the different sounds and vowel lengths in each word.
The phrase "grow dim" refers to when a source of light progressively loses its intensity or brightness, resulting in a decrease in luminosity. It is often used metaphorically to describe the diminishing clarity or sharpness of certain visual concepts or mental images.
In a literal sense, when an object or space "grows dim," it implies that the illumination it once had is diminishing or becoming less pronounced, gradually transitioning towards a state of darkness. This phenomenon can occur due to factors such as the waning of natural light or the weakening of artificial lighting sources. As the light diminishes, objects become less visible, details become less distinguishable, and shadows become darker.
Metaphorically, the concept of "growing dim" is employed to describe situations where the understanding or perception of something becomes less clear or vivid. This could refer to intellectual concepts, emotional experiences, or memories. This figurative usage implies a gradual fading or loss of the initial brightness, sharpness, or significance of a particular concept or idea.
Overall, "grow dim" encapsulates both a literal and metaphoric meaning, describing the gradual decrease in luminosity that a light source experiences, as well as the fading or diminishing clarity of various visual and cognitive elements.
The etymology of the phrase "grow dim" can be traced back to the Middle English period.
The word "grow" can be traced back to Old Norse "grōa" and Old English "grōwan", meaning "to grow, increase in size or number". "Grow" has remained relatively unchanged throughout history and is still used in the same sense today.
The word "dim" originated from Old English "dim(m)" and can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "*dimbaz", meaning "gloomy, obscure". This word evolved from the Proto-Indo-European root "*dheie-" which meant "to shine, to be visible". Over time, "dim" came to be associated with a decrease in brightness or light, creating a sense of reduced clarity or visibility.
When combined, "grow dim" implies a gradual decrease in brightness or clarity over time.
