The word "weathered" is spelled with a combination of long and short vowel sounds. The first syllable begins with the "weh" sound, represented by the IPA symbol /wɛ/. The second syllable contains the short "th" sound, represented by /ər/. The third syllable includes a long "ed" sound, written as /ɛd/. Overall, the spelling of "weathered" follows English phonetic rules and effectively represents the word's pronunciation. This word is commonly used to describe objects or surfaces that have been worn down or changed by exposure to weather conditions.
Weathered is an adjective that refers to an object, surface, or material that has been subjected to the effects of weather or climate over a period of time. It implies that the item has experienced exposure to the elements, such as wind, rain, sun, and temperature fluctuations, leading to visible changes in its appearance or condition.
Typically used to describe natural elements like rocks, stones, or wood, a weathered object has often developed a distinct texture, color, or patina as a result of prolonged exposure to the weather. For example, a weathered piece of wood may have become faded, cracked, or splintered over time due to rain and UV rays. In the case of rocks or stones, weathering can cause erosion, chipping, or smoothing of their surface, giving them a worn or aged appearance.
Moreover, the term can also extend to human-made objects such as buildings or monuments. A weathered building might exhibit peeling paint, worn-out roofing, or corroded metal, indicating its exposure to various weather conditions over many years.
In a metaphorical sense, "weathered" can describe a person who has overcome hardships or challenges, exhibiting resilience and strength through difficult circumstances. It implies that they have endured and come out on the other side, showing signs of growth and experience.
Passed with difficulty; in geol., wasted, worn away, discoloured, or covered with lichens by exposure to the influences of the atmosphere, as rock-surfaces; weather is used as the first part of many compounds in the language of seamen, signifying "toward the wind," as in weather-bow, weather-quarter, weather-side, &c.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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The word "weathered" comes from the Middle English word "wederen", which means "to expose to the weather". This Middle English term is derived from the Old English word "weder", meaning "weather". The Old English word is ultimately derived from the Proto-Germanic word "wedrą", which has Indo-European roots.