Sheer Meaning

Sheer

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. Absolute or complete, often used to emphasize something’s extent or degree.
2. Very thin or transparent, especially referring to fabric or material.
3. Steep or nearly vertical, as in a sheer cliff or slope.
4. Unmixed or pure, such as in the context of emotions or qualities, like sheer joy.

History and Origin

The word “sheer” comes from the Old English scearu, meaning “a division” or “part,” which evolved into the Middle English word schere, meaning “pure” or “clear.” Over time, it broadened in meaning to describe something that is complete, unadulterated, or very steep. Its association with transparency in fabric came from the early 19th century, likely due to the use of lightweight, almost transparent materials for certain garments.

Detailed Explanation

“Sheer” is a versatile word used in different contexts. When used to describe something as “sheer,” it often means that it is complete or unadulterated, such as “sheer determination” or “sheer force.” In fashion, “sheer” typically refers to fabrics that are light, thin, or transparent, like sheer silk or chiffon. When describing a physical feature, such as a cliff, “sheer” refers to something that is almost vertical, implying a steep drop or incline. The term also conveys purity or intensity when describing feelings or qualities, like sheer happiness or sheer exhaustion, to indicate a strong, unmitigated state.

Example Sentences

1. The sheer size of the mountain left everyone in awe.
2. She wore a sheer dress that shimmered under the lights.
3. His sheer determination helped him win the race, despite the odds.
4. The sheer cliffs along the coast make for a breathtaking view.
5. The sheer volume of work required to finish the project was overwhelming.
6. The athlete’s sheer speed left the competition behind.
7. The wind howled as they climbed the sheer rock face.
8. She experienced sheer joy when she received the news.
9. The sheer beauty of the sunset took their breath away.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Absolute – Complete or total in extent or degree.
2. Transparent – Thin or clear enough to allow light to pass through, often used to describe materials.
3. Steep – Having a sharp incline, especially when describing a hill or cliff.
4. Pure – Untainted or free from any mixture, often used to describe feelings or materials.
5. Intense – Extreme or very strong, particularly in terms of emotions or situations.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Cliff – A steep face of rock or earth, often referred to as sheer when it is very vertical.
2. Lightweight – Describing a material that is thin and not heavy, often used in reference to sheer fabrics.
3. Transparent – Allowing light to pass through, a quality often associated with sheer materials.
4. Vertical – Upright or perpendicular, often used to describe sheer drops or surfaces.
5. Unadulterated – Pure or undiluted, similar to sheer when referring to things that are untainted.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Unmitigated – Absolute or without any reduction in intensity, like “unmitigated joy.”
2. Bare – Basic or minimal, often used similarly to sheer in the context of simplicity.
3. Exquisite – Extremely beautiful or delicate, similar to the effect of sheer elegance.
4. Clear – Free of obstruction or transparency, like sheer glass.
5. Profound – Having great depth or significance, similar to the intensity of sheer emotion.

Antonyms

1. Partial
2. Opaque
3. Complex
4. Muddy
5. Unclear