The spelling of the phrase "hiding away" can be explained using IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) transcription. The first syllable, "hid," is pronounced with the /h/ sound followed by the short /ɪ/ vowel sound and the voiced /d/ consonant sound. The second syllable, "-ing," has the /ɪ/ vowel sound followed by the velar nasal consonant /ŋ/. The final syllable, "-away," can be pronounced with the /ə/ schwa sound followed by the voiceless /w/ consonant sound and the long /eɪ/ diphthong vowel sound. Hence, the correct IPA transcription of "hiding away" is /ˈhaɪdɪŋ əˈweɪ/.
Hiding away refers to the act of concealing oneself or something in a secret or secluded location in order to evade detection or remain unnoticed. It involves retreating or withdrawing from view, typically with the intention of avoiding or finding solitude from others or the surrounding environment. The term implies an active effort to seek seclusion or refuge.
When someone is hiding away, they often choose to isolate themselves in a secluded place, such as a secluded room, a secluded area in nature, or even deep within their own thoughts. This seclusion can be motivated by various reasons, such as a desire for privacy, a need for self-reflection, or an attempt to evade potential threats or dangers. Hiding away can be a temporary measure, allowing an individual to recuperate and find solace, or it can be a more permanent choice, where one intentionally avoids social interactions or public exposure.
The idea of hiding away can also extend to objects or possessions, where they are deliberately concealed or stashed away in hidden places, often for protection or to avoid someone finding or taking them. This can be seen in situations like hiding valuables in secret compartments or simply stowing away sentimental items in unassuming locations.
Overall, hiding away encompasses the act of seeking seclusion, whether for personal reasons or to protect something from being discovered, with the ultimate goal of staying out of sight or shielding from external influences.
The phrase "hiding away" does not have an etymology by itself, as it is composed of two separate words: "hiding" and "away". However, we can look at the origins of each individual word to understand their meaning.
1. Hiding: The word "hiding" comes from the Old English word "hydan" which means "to conceal oneself". It has Germanic roots and is related to the Old High German word "hutan" and the Old Norse word "hutha".
2. Away: The word "away" comes from Middle English, specifically from the Old English "aweg" or "onweg". "Aweeg" consists of the prefix "a-" meaning "on" or "in", and "weg", which means "way" or "journey".