SMALL HOUR Meaning and
Definition
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Small Hour is a term commonly used to refer to the early hours of the morning. It is a phrase that typically denotes a particular period between midnight and dawn, when most people are sound asleep. The term "small" is often used to emphasize the late hour and the stillness and quietness that pervades during this time.
During the small hours, the world seems hushed, serene, and undisturbed. It is a time when the majority of people are in a deep slumber, and the outside world is relatively calm and peaceful. The small hour is marked by a sense of tranquility and a scarcity of activity, as the hustle and bustle of daytime life is put on hold.
The significance of the small hour can vary depending on the context. It can be a time of reflection and solitude, allowing individuals to engage in introspection, prayer, or meditation. Others may associate the small hour with a mysterious and eerie ambiance, as it is often related to legends, ghost stories, or folklore.
In literature and poetry, the small hour is frequently depicted as a time of emotional vulnerability, where characters may experience feelings of loneliness, melancholy, or contemplation. It is a moment when secrets are whispered, and intimate conversations take place under the cover of darkness.
Overall, the small hour represents a unique period in the timeline of a day, characterized by its stillness, darkness, and the absence of most human activity.
Etymology of SMALL HOUR
The term small hour is derived from the Old English word smael, meaning small or short, and the word hour. The concept of dividing the day and night into smaller units of time has existed for centuries, and the term small hour was used to refer to one of these smaller divisions, typically corresponding to a period of time between 60 and 90 minutes. Over time, the term small hour has become less common, and it is now more commonly referred to as a short hour or simply an hour.
