Word: Sinew
Definition:
The word "sinew" is a noun that refers to a tough, strong tissue in our bodies. This tissue connects muscles to bones and helps us move. You can think of sinews as the cords that keep our muscles and bones working together. In a broader sense, "sinew" can also mean strength or power, especially in a person's character or capabilities.
Usage Instructions:
You can use "sinew" when talking about the physical strength of muscles, the way muscles connect to bones, or when describing someone's determination and resilience.
Example Sentence:
"The athlete's sinews were well-developed, allowing him to run faster and jump higher than his competitors."
Advanced Usage:
In literature or more formal writing, "sinew" might be used metaphorically to refer to the strength or foundation of something non-physical, such as a business or a community. For example:
"The sinews of the organization were its dedicated volunteers."
Word Variants:
- Sinewy (adjective): Describing someone or something that is muscular and strong.
Example: "The sinewy climber scaled the steep mountain with ease."
Different Meanings:
1. Literal Meaning: Referring specifically to the fibrous tissues in the body. 2. Metaphorical Meaning: Indicating strength or essential support in various contexts, like "the sinews of society" which refers to the essential parts that hold a society together.
Synonyms:
- Tendon (specifically refers to the sinew connecting muscle to bone) - Strength - Muscle - Power
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
While "sinew" does not have common idioms or phrasal verbs associated directly with it, the concept of strength can be linked to idioms such as: - "To have a strong sinew of determination" meaning to have a strong will or resolve.
Summary:
"Sinew" is a word that connects physical strength to the tissue in our bodies and can also be used to describe metaphorical strength.