The spelling of the word "guttering out" can be a little tricky due to the pronunciation of the letter "t". In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be written as /ˈɡʌtərɪŋ aʊt/, with the "t" being pronounced as a glottal stop. This means that instead of a traditional "t" sound, there is a brief pause or closure of the vocal cords. It's important to keep this pronunciation in mind when spelling the word to ensure that it is correctly written as "guttering out".
Guttering out is a phrase commonly used to describe the process or action of a fire, flame, or source of light gradually diminishing or extinguishing completely. It specifically refers to the gradual decrease in size or intensity of a burning object.
In the context of a fire, guttering out implies that the flames are slowly dying down, losing their brightness and heat. This phrase is commonly used when describing the end result of a fire that was once vigorous and lively but is now becoming weak and feeble. It often suggests a gradual fading away rather than an abrupt termination.
The term can also extend metaphorically to describe the decline or loss of energy, enthusiasm, or momentum in areas beyond literal fire. For example, it can be used to depict the dwindling resolve of an individual, group, or project as their initial vigor or passion wanes over time.
The word "guttering" in this context may draw its origins from the verb "gutter," which means to burn unsteadily or with irregular flickering. The out component of the phrase signifies the completion or conclusion of this process.
Overall, guttering out captures the visual imagery of a fire or flame slowly and gradually diminishing, symbolizing the fading away of vitality, strength, or eagerness.
The phrase "guttering out" does not have a specified etymology as it is a combination of two separate words: "gutter" and "out". The word "gutter" comes from the Old French word "goutiere", which ultimately traces back to the Latin word "gutta" meaning "a drop". In its literal sense, a gutter refers to a narrow channel or trough used to collect and carry away rainwater from a roof. on the other hand, the word "out" is derived from Old English "ūt", indicating movement away or outside. When these two words are combined, "guttering out" is often used to describe the act of a flame or fire being extinguished or fading away, similarly to the way a small stream of water flowing in a gutter may cease to flow.