Meaning of Word
Distant refers to something far away in space, time, or relationship, or someone who is emotionally detached or aloof.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- Far away in space, time, or relationship.
- Lacking a close emotional connection or warmth.
- Existing or occurring far in the past or future.
History and Origin
The word distant originates from the Latin distantem, the present participle of distare, meaning “to stand apart.” This word passed into Old French as distant and then into Middle English, retaining the sense of something being physically or emotionally far away.
Detailed Explanation
Distant can describe physical distance, as in something being far away in space, or temporal distance, such as an event that occurred a long time ago or will occur in the far future. It can also refer to relationships, where someone is emotionally detached or not closely connected. For example, someone might have a distant relative (a family member who is not closely related), or a person may be described as distant if they seem cold or aloof.
Example Sentences
- The distant mountains were barely visible through the fog.
- They had a distant memory of their childhood vacations by the beach.
- She felt a distant connection to her cousins, having grown up in different countries.
- His voice sounded distant over the phone, as if he was far away.
- The distant future holds many possibilities we can’t yet predict.
- His distant manner made it hard for others to get to know him.
- We saw the distant lights of the city from the hilltop.
- She looked at the distant stars and wondered about the mysteries of the universe.
- The distant hum of traffic could be heard from the apartment window.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Faraway – At a great distance in space or time.
- Remote – Located far from the center or from the current position; distant.
- Aloof – Emotionally distant or detached, not showing interest.
- Isolated – Far from others, often implying a lack of connection.
- Detached – Emotionally distant or separate, not involved.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Far – At a great distance, similar to distant in describing space.
- Vast – Extremely large in space or extent, sometimes used to describe distance.
- Cold – Emotionally distant, lacking warmth or affection.
- Removed – Distant in relationship or perspective, often implying separation.
- Obscure – Not clearly seen or understood, sometimes implying emotional distance.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Unreachable – Beyond the ability to reach or connect with, either physically or emotionally.
- Separate – Distinct or apart, often used to describe distance in terms of relationships.
- Disjointed – Lacking coherence or connection, often used metaphorically for distant ideas.
- Distantly related – Referring to someone with a remote or far-off familial connection.
- Alienated – Emotionally distant, feeling estranged or disconnected.
Antonyms
- Close – Near in space, time, or relationship.
- Intimate – Having a very close or personal relationship.
- Connected – In close contact or relationship, either emotionally or physically.
- Nearby – Close in space or distance.
- Familiar – Well-known, often referring to close relationships or experiences.
