SNOWFLAKE Meaning and
Definition
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Snowflake is a noun that can refer to both a physical phenomenon and a metaphorical concept. In the physical sense, a snowflake is a unique ice crystal that forms in the atmosphere and falls to the ground as snow. These delicate, intricate structures are typically hexagonal in shape and showcase intricate patterns and symmetrical formations. Each individual snowflake has a distinct geometric arrangement of arms or branches stemming from a central point, making it truly one-of-a-kind. The formation of snowflakes is dependent on factors such as temperature, humidity, and the presence of microscopic impurities in the atmosphere.
Metaphorically, the term "snowflake" has gained popularity in contemporary language to describe individuals who are seen as overly sensitive, delicate, or easily offended. It often implies that these individuals perceive themselves as unique or special, similar to how no two snowflakes are identical. This usage emerged in the late 20th century, particularly in online communities and as a result of political debates. As a metaphor, "snowflake" can carry both negative and positive connotations, depending on the context and speaker's intention.
Overall, "snowflake" encompasses the beauty and fragility of the natural ice crystals as well as the symbolic significance it has acquired in modern discourse, carrying associations of individuality and fragility both in the physical and metaphorical realms.
Top Common Misspellings for SNOWFLAKE *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for SNOWFLAKE
Etymology of SNOWFLAKE
The term "snowflake" has an interesting etymology that dates back several centuries. Originally, "snowflake" was used as a compound word, combining "snow" with the suffix "-flake". The word "flake" comes from the Old Norse term "flaki", meaning a slice or layer, which also gave rise to the English word "flake" as in "flake of snow" or "flake of skin". However, the term "snowflake" in its modern usage took on a different meaning. Its current sense of referring to a person who is deemed overly sensitive, easily offended, or lacking resilience, emerged in the late 20th century. It gained popularity as an insult, particularly in the United States. The word's metaphorical use likely stems from the idea that, just as each snowflake is unique, some individuals are perceived as thinking they are unique and fragile like snowflakes, requiring special treatment and protection.
Similar spelling words for SNOWFLAKE
- snaffle bit,
- sniffler,
- snowfall,
- snuffly,
- snow plant,
- sniffle,
- snuffler,
- snuffle,
- snowfield,
- sniffly,
- snaffle.
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