Part of Speech

Noun, Verb

Pronunciation

/ɔː/ (noun), /ɔː/ or /əʊ/ (verb)

Definitions

• Noun: A feeling of reverential respect mixed with fear or wonder, often evoked by something grand, powerful, or sublime.
• Verb: To fill someone with awe or wonder.

Usage Examples

• The majestic mountains filled him with awe.
• She stood in awe of the magnificent palace.
• His bravery awed everyone around him.
• The sight of the stars in the clear sky awed the children.

Etymology

The word "awe" comes from Old English "ege," meaning "fear, terror," derived from Proto-Germanic *agō (cf. Old High German "ägā" and Old Norse "agi"), meaning fear or dread. Over time, it evolved to also imply a mix of fear and wonder, especially in the presence of something sublime or powerful.

Synonyms

• Wonder
• Reverence
• Admiration
• Fear
• Respect
• Marvel
• Amazement

Antonyms

• Disdain
• Contempt
• Indifference
• Disinterest
• Repulsion

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In British English, the pronunciation typically follows the IPA /ɔː/.
• In American English, the word may be pronounced similarly but with a less rounded vowel, as /ɑː/ or /ɔː/.
• In Australian English, the pronunciation tends to be a bit more relaxed but remains close to /ɔː/.

Historical Usage

The word "awe" has been used for centuries, with its earliest known use in Old English as "ege," meaning fear or terror. By the Middle Ages, the word had taken on a dual meaning, combining both fear and admiration, often in a religious or reverential context. It was used in the sense of being overwhelmed by the majesty of God, nature, or other sublime forces. Over time, the meaning evolved to encompass a broader range of feelings, such as admiration and amazement, often in response to something impressive or powerful.

Cultural Nuances

The concept of "awe" is deeply tied to human experience, often evoked by things that challenge our understanding or stir deep emotions, such as nature, art, or moments of personal revelation. In many cultures, awe is associated with the divine, as it often arises in the presence of the sacred or the sublime. In modern contexts, awe is also seen in reactions to extraordinary human achievements or technological advancements. The feeling of awe often transcends language and culture, with similar responses observed across societies in the face of awe-inspiring events.

More Information

Awe is a complex emotional response that often includes elements of fear, wonder, reverence, and admiration. It is distinct from simple admiration in that it often involves an element of the sublime or the overwhelming. Awe can be evoked by both natural phenomena, such as majestic landscapes, and human-made objects or feats, such as works of art, architecture, or scientific discoveries. While awe has historically been associated with spiritual or religious experiences, it remains a key emotion in the human experience and is central to the contemplation of the unknown or the unknowable.