Resonate
Definitions and Meaning in English
- To produce or be filled with a deep, full, or rich sound.
- To evoke or suggest a strong emotional response or feeling.
- To have a lasting impact or influence on someone or something, often in terms of meaning or relevance.
- To be in agreement or harmony with something, such as an idea or belief.
History and Origin
The word “resonate” comes from the Latin resonare, meaning “to resound” or “to echo,” from re- (meaning “again”) and sonare (meaning “to sound”). The term was used in English as early as the 17th century, originally referring to the physical phenomenon of sound reverberating or echoing. Over time, it expanded to encompass emotional or intellectual resonance, describing how something can reverberate within someone’s feelings or thoughts, much like sound echoes in a space.
Detailed Explanation
“Resonate” has both a literal and metaphorical meaning. In its literal sense, it refers to sound waves or vibrations that echo or reverberate, creating a lasting impression. For instance, musical instruments or voices can resonate, producing a deep, lasting sound.
In a metaphorical sense, “resonate” describes the effect something has when it deeply connects with a person’s emotions, ideas, or experiences. It could be a piece of art, a message, or an experience that causes someone to feel a deep connection or understanding. For example, a speech might resonate with an audience if it stirs their emotions or thoughts on a profound level.
Example Sentences
- The deep voice of the singer resonated throughout the concert hall.
- His words about justice resonated with the crowd, leaving a lasting impression.
- The movie’s message about hope resonated with audiences around the world.
- The echoes of the bell resonated through the quiet town square.
- The speaker’s powerful story resonated with many of the listeners, bringing them to tears.
- That book really resonated with me, reminding me of my own childhood experiences.
- The idea of helping others resonates strongly with her personal values.
- His actions resonate with the principles of integrity and honesty.
- The historical event continues to resonate in modern-day politics.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Echo – To produce a repeated sound or reverberation, often used in reference to sound or ideas.
- Strike a chord – To create an emotional response, often a deep or meaningful connection.
- Vibrate – To produce a sound or feeling that resonates or reverberates within someone.
- Resound – To be loud or clear in sound or meaning, often with a lasting impact.
- Connect – To establish a strong emotional or intellectual relationship with someone.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Reverberate – To echo or reflect sound or an effect over a wide area.
- Impact – The strong influence or effect something has, often causing a significant change.
- Harmonize – To be in agreement or resonate with something, especially in terms of ideas or actions.
- Stir – To provoke or awaken emotions or thoughts, often deeply.
- Affirm – To express agreement or resonance with an idea or belief.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Resonance – The quality of being able to evoke a deep emotional or intellectual response.
- Relate – To connect or resonate with someone’s experiences or feelings.
- Influence – The ability to affect someone’s thoughts, feelings, or actions deeply.
- Touch – To have an emotional impact, often evoking a deep response.
- Reflect – To show or evoke an image, idea, or feeling that resonates with someone’s experience.
Antonyms
- Dissonate
- Repel
- Disagree
- Ignore
- Contradict