How Do You Spell ATHWART?

Pronunciation: [ˈaθwɔːt] (IPA)

The word "athwart" may seem tricky to spell, but its pronunciation is easily explained using IPA phonetic transcription. The word is pronounced /əθˈwɔːt/ with the stress on the second syllable. The initial "a" sound is pronounced like the schwa symbol, followed by a voiced "th" sound. The "w" sound is pronounced as /w/ and the final "t" is voiced. Despite its unusual spelling, "athwart" is a useful word meaning "across" or "transversely," often used to describe something that is at an angle to a given point or direction.

Meaning and Definition
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Etymology
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ATHWART Meaning and Definition

  1. Athwart is an adverb that is used to describe a perpendicular or oblique direction. It denotes something that is positioned or moving in a sideways or diagonal manner, in opposition to the usual or expected course. It implies crossing, intersecting, or covering something in a manner that opposes its natural or intended path.

    In a spatial context, athwart denotes a movement or location that is at right angles or diagonal to a given path. It signifies a crossing or intersecting of the normal trajectory. For example, a rope might be thrown athwart a river, meaning it is thrown diagonally across the flow or path of the water.

    Athwart can also be used figuratively to describe an opposition, clash, or contradiction. When used in this context, it suggests an opposition or contrariness to the expected or customary course of events or ideas. For instance, one can say that the politician's stance on the issue ran athwart the popular opinion.

    Furthermore, the term can signify an obstruction or hindrance to progress. It implies an interruption or interference that hampers or impedes the smooth and direct course of action.

    Overall, athwart is a word that encapsulates the concept of sideward or diagonal movement, conflict or contradiction against the expected, and an obstruction to progress or trajectory.

  2. • Across; from side to side.
    • Among seamen, across the line of the ship's course; in a manner to cross or perplex.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for ATHWART

Etymology of ATHWART

The word athwart originated from Middle English, where it was spelled adwert. Its etymology can be traced back to the Old English word onweard which meant to turn towards. Over time, onweard evolved into on-ward in Middle English, which eventually transformed into adwert. In the 15th century, adwert took on the form athwart, maintaining its meaning of across or in opposition to.

Similar spelling words for ATHWART

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