hoary

/'hɔ:ri/

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Word: Hoary

Part of Speech: Adjective

Basic Meaning:

The word "hoary" primarily describes something that is covered with fine, whitish hairs or down. It can also refer to something very old or ancient, suggesting that it has been around for a long time. Additionally, it can describe someone who has grey or white hair, often associated with old age.

Usage Instructions:

You can use "hoary" to describe physical characteristics (like hair or fur) or to refer to things that are very old, like stories, traditions, or even people.

Examples:

1. Physical Description: "The hoary old tree in the park has branches covered with moss and fine white hairs."
2. Age or Antiquity: "He told us a hoary joke that he had heard many years ago."
3. Referring to Hair: "With his hoary beard, the wise man looked like he had seen many seasons."

Advanced Usage:

In literature or more formal contexts, "hoary" can be used to evoke a sense of wisdom or timelessness, especially when referring to ideas, legends, or traditions that have stood the test of time.

Word Variants:

• Hoar: This is the root word and can be used as a noun or adjective, referring to frost or whiteness, particularly in relation to age (e.g., "hoar frost").
• Hoariness: This is the noun form, describing the quality of being hoary.

Different Meanings:

• Literary Use: "Hoary" can be used metaphorically to describe ideas or practices that are old-fashioned or outdated, like "hoary customs."
• Nature: In botany or zoology, "hoary" might refer to plants or animals that have a white or greyish appearance due to fine hairs.

Synonyms:

• Grey
• Ancient
• Old
• White-haired
• Elderly

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "hoary," but you might find it in phrases like "hoary old chestnut," which refers to an old and overused joke or story.

Summary:

"Hoary" is a descriptive word that can refer to things that are old, ancient, or have a whitish appearance. It can be used in various contexts, from describing physical characteristics to talking about age or wisdom.

Academic

Adjective

1. covered with fine whitish hairs or down
2. ancient
   • hoary jokes
3. showing characteristics of age, especially having grey or white hair
   • whose beard with age is hoar-Coleridge
   • nodded his hoary head

Synonyms

• canescent
• rusty