etymology.today
16.05.2025 | see previous words
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"alpenglow"
German
> DEFINITION:
A reddish glow seen near sunset or sunrise on the summits of mountains, particularly the Alps.
> ETYMOLOGY:
Origin: The term 'alpenglow' is derived from the German word 'Alpenglühen', which means 'Alps glow'. It comes from 'Alpen' meaning 'Alps' and 'glühen' meaning 'to glow'. This compound word reflects the phenomenon observed in the Alps.
Historical and Cultural Context: First documented in the 19th century by mountaineers and travelers in the Alpine regions, 'alpenglow' described the unique reddish light seen on mountain peaks at sunrise and sunset, a sight that has captivated artists and poets.
Evolution: The word has maintained its original form and meaning in both German and English. It has a close connection to the word 'glow', which shares a similar concept of emitting light.
Modern Relevance: Today, 'alpenglow' is used widely in photography, literature, and tourism to describe the beautiful light phenomena in mountainous regions, not limited to the Alps.
Historical and Cultural Context: First documented in the 19th century by mountaineers and travelers in the Alpine regions, 'alpenglow' described the unique reddish light seen on mountain peaks at sunrise and sunset, a sight that has captivated artists and poets.
Evolution: The word has maintained its original form and meaning in both German and English. It has a close connection to the word 'glow', which shares a similar concept of emitting light.
Modern Relevance: Today, 'alpenglow' is used widely in photography, literature, and tourism to describe the beautiful light phenomena in mountainous regions, not limited to the Alps.
> FUN_FACT:
Despite its name, alpenglow can occur in any mountainous region, not just the Alps. It is caused by the scattering of sunlight by the atmosphere at low sun angles.
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