Dew Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/duː/

Part of Speech

Noun or Verb

Definition

A small drop of water; a condensed vapor, typically found on grass, leaves, or other surfaces in the morning, formed as the air cools and becomes saturated with water vapor.

Examples

The dew on the grass sparkled in the morning sunlight.
The flowers needed to be watered before the dew evaporated.

Synonyms

Drip
Bead
Condensation

Antonyms

Parch
Dryness

Etymology

The word “dew” comes from Old English “dō”, which is also the source of the Modern English word “drip”.

Usage Notes

Dew is often used figuratively to describe something that is fresh, new, or revitalized. For example, “the dew of new experience” might refer to the excitement and wonder of trying something new.

Cultural References

Dew is mentioned in various works of literature, such as in William Wordsworth’s poem “The Prelude”, and is often used as a symbol of purity, innocence, and new beginnings.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

“In the dew of youth” is an idiomatic expression that refers to the carefree and innocent days of one’s youth.

Related Words or Phrases

Precipitation
Humidity
Condensed

Collocations

Dew on the grass
Dew drops
Dewy morning

Frequency of Use

Dew is a relatively common word in everyday language, especially in weather-related contexts or when describing natural phenomena.