etymology.today
21.08.2025 | see previous words
황
혼
"hwanghon"
Korean
> DEFINITION:
Twilight, the time of day immediately following sunset.
> ETYMOLOGY:
Origin: The word '황혼' originates from Korean, composed of '황' (hwang) meaning 'yellow' and '혼' (hon) meaning 'soul' or 'spirit'. The term metaphorically describes the sky's golden hue at twilight, suggesting a transition period akin to a spiritual or mystical change.
Historical and Cultural Context: First attested in Korean literature during the Goryeo Dynasty, '황혼' was often used in poetry and prose to evoke the serene and transitional beauty of dusk, symbolizing both an end and a beginning.
Evolution: The word has retained its original meaning over centuries, although in modern Korean, it can also metaphorically refer to the later stages of life, implying a gentle winding down or a time of reflection. Cognates are not common in neighboring languages, highlighting its unique cultural context.
Modern Relevance: Today, '황혼' is used both in daily conversation and literature, often evoking nostalgia or introspection. It is also employed in expressions like '황혼의 사랑' (hwanghon-ui sarang), meaning 'twilight love', referring to romance in later life.
Historical and Cultural Context: First attested in Korean literature during the Goryeo Dynasty, '황혼' was often used in poetry and prose to evoke the serene and transitional beauty of dusk, symbolizing both an end and a beginning.
Evolution: The word has retained its original meaning over centuries, although in modern Korean, it can also metaphorically refer to the later stages of life, implying a gentle winding down or a time of reflection. Cognates are not common in neighboring languages, highlighting its unique cultural context.
Modern Relevance: Today, '황혼' is used both in daily conversation and literature, often evoking nostalgia or introspection. It is also employed in expressions like '황혼의 사랑' (hwanghon-ui sarang), meaning 'twilight love', referring to romance in later life.
> FUN_FACT:
In Korean, '황혼' is often associated with the phrase '황혼 이혼' (hwanghon ihon), which means 'twilight divorce', a term describing couples who separate later in life after children have grown up.

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