The word "stilling" is spelled with two L's, indicating a double consonant sound. This means the sound of the first L is held longer than usual before being released. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word would be spelled /ˈstɪlɪŋ/ , with the first L making the "l" sound as in "leaf" and the second L making the "l" sound as in "cell". This double consonant is important to ensure the correct pronunciation and meaning of the word, which refers to the action of making something still or quiet.
Stilling, as a verb, refers to the act of making something calm, quiet, or still. It involves reducing or eliminating movement, noise, or turbulence. When something is still, it means there is a lack of motion or activity, a state of tranquility or peacefulness.
In the context of nature, stilling can refer to the process of calming the elements like water or wind. For instance, stilling a lake involves making the water surface smooth, devoid of ripples or disturbances. Similarly, stilling the wind refers to diminishing or stopping its intensity, resulting in a calm and motionless atmosphere.
Stilling can also be applied metaphorically to emotions or thoughts. In this sense, it implies the act of calming or quieting the mind, suppressing one's feelings or anxieties. By stilling one's thoughts, a person aims to achieve a state of mental calm and clarity.
In certain technical disciplines like photography or filmmaking, stilling refers to capturing an image or scene without any movement or motion blur. It involves using techniques like long exposures, tripods, or image stabilization to ensure a sharp and stationary result.
Overall, stilling encompasses the processes of reducing activity, eliminating disturbances, and attaining a state of tranquility, whether in nature, one's mind, or captured images.
The word "stilling" has its etymology rooted in the Old English term "stillan" which meant "to become calm or be at rest". This term later evolved into Middle English as "stillen" and eventually became "stilling" in Modern English. The word has also been used to describe the action of making something or someone quiet or calm.