Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/ˈɡæðər/

Definitions

• Verb: To bring together, collect, or assemble something or people from various places.
• Verb: To accumulate or gather something over time, especially in a gradual way.
• Verb: To harvest or pick crops, fruits, or other items from the land or garden.
• Verb: To summon or call together for a specific purpose, such as a meeting or event.

Usage Examples

• She gathered all the books from the shelf to donate them to charity.
• People gathered in the park to protest the new policy.
• The team gathered their thoughts before the big game.
• The farmer gathered the crops at the end of the season.

Etymology

The word "gather" originates from Old English "gaderian," meaning to collect or assemble. It is related to the Old High German word "gadarōn," which has the same meaning. Over the centuries, it evolved in usage to include a broader sense of bringing things together or accumulating. The core idea remains the same: to bring things from various locations or sources into one place or group.

Synonyms

• Collect
• Assemble
• Amass
• Accumulate
• Harvest
• Convene

Antonyms

• Disperse
• Scatter
• Separate
• Divide
• Disband

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "gather" varies slightly depending on the region. In British English, the 'th' sound is pronounced clearly, as in /ˈɡæðər/, while in American English, the pronunciation may be slightly softer, often sounding like /ˈɡæθər/ in casual speech. In parts of the UK, such as Scotland, the 'th' sound may be pronounced more sharply. In Southern English dialects, the vowel sound in "gather" may be more nasal.

Historical Usage

Historically, the word "gather" has been used for centuries in both literal and metaphorical senses. In the 14th century, it was commonly used to describe the act of assembling people for communal events, such as feasts or religious services. Over time, it also came to mean the process of collecting items, especially harvests, in agricultural communities. In literature, "gather" is often associated with the idea of bringing things together for reflection, learning, or collective action.

Cultural Nuances

The act of "gathering" has deep cultural significance in many societies. In many African and Indigenous cultures, gathering is seen as a communal activity, symbolizing unity and cooperation. In Western contexts, gatherings often have a social or formal connotation, such as family reunions, business meetings, or public protests. The cultural impact of gathering extends into the digital age, where virtual gatherings are just as significant as physical ones, forming new social bonds and networks.

More Information

The word "gather" is often used in a variety of contexts, from everyday conversation to religious rituals. It serves as a central concept in many social structures and is deeply embedded in cultural practices. The idea of coming together, whether physically or metaphorically, to share resources, knowledge, or support, remains a powerful aspect of human interaction. "Gathering" also plays a significant role in the environmental context, as many communities still rely on gathering natural resources like herbs, fruits, and water as part of their subsistence practices.