STARSPANGLED Meaning and
Definition
-
Star-spangled is an adjective that refers to something that is adorned, decorated, or characterized by stars, especially in reference to the American flag. The term originated from the lyrics of the United States national anthem, "The Star-Spangled Banner," written by Francis Scott Key in 1814. The song describes the American flag during the Battle of Baltimore in the War of 1812, where it is referred to as "the Star-Spangled Banner."
In a broader sense, star-spangled is often used to depict something or someone that is associated with American patriotism or national pride. It embodies the spirit of freedom, unity, and resilience that are historically attributed to the American people.
The term can be applied to various contexts, such as star-spangled decorations during patriotic celebrations, star-spangled clothing or accessories worn on Independence Day, or even metaphorical descriptions of events or individuals that evoke American pride. For example, a star-spangled event may refer to a memorable and patriotic gathering, while a star-spangled hero may signify a figure who embodies the ideals and values of the United States.
Overall, star-spangled denotes a symbolic representation of the stars found on the American flag, serving as a reminder of the nation's foundation and the principles it stands for.
Etymology of STARSPANGLED
The word "starspangled" is derived from two separate words: "star" and "spangled".
1. Star: The term "star" originated from the Old English word "steorra", which can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "*sternō". The Proto-Germanic term ultimately finds its roots in the Proto-Indo-European word "*h₂stḗr", meaning "star". The word "star" refers to a celestial body that appears as a luminous point in the night sky when observed from Earth.
2. Spangled: The word "spangled" comes from the Middle English word "spangelen", which is related to the Old High German word "spangalōn" meaning "to adorn" or "to embellish".
