The word "reverberate" is spelled with three syllables: /rɪˈvɜːr.bər.eɪt/. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound, followed by a stressed "e" sound in the second syllable. The "ber" in the second syllable is pronounced with an "er" sound, and the final syllable is emphasized with a schwa sound followed by a long "a" sound. This word describes a sound or an event that echoes or repeats itself, often with increasing intensity.
Reverberate is a verb that describes the act of being echoed or reflected repeatedly, either audibly or metaphorically. From a physical standpoint, it refers to the sound waves reflecting off surfaces and bouncing back with a series of reflections, causing a prolonged and resounding effect.
In a literal sense, when sound waves reverberate in a space, they create a continuous and echoing pattern, amplifying and prolonging the sound. This effect is commonly observed in large halls, caves, or cathedrals where the sound seems to bounce off the walls and linger for an extended period.
Metaphorically, reverberate refers to the significant impact and influence that something has, as it continues to be felt or remembered long after the initial occurrence. For example, an impactful speech or an event can reverberate through society, creating lasting effects or echoes of its message.
The term can also suggest a repetition or recurrence of a particular action or event. For instance, rumors or news may reverberate throughout a community, spreading quickly and being repeated by multiple individuals.
Overall, "reverberate" encapsulates the concept of a lasting and resounding effect, whether it be in a physical, metaphorical, or figurative sense.
To return or send back, as a sound; to echo; to drive from side to side; to be repelled; to resound; to reflect, as rays of light.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "reverberate" has its origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin verb "reverberare", which means "to repel, to beat back, or to rebound". This Latin verb is composed of two parts: "re-" meaning "again" or "back", and "verberare" meaning "to beat or strike". Over time, the meaning of "reverberare" evolved to include the concept of sound echoing or bouncing back, and eventually led to the modern English word "reverberate" in the 17th century.