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fathom

verb

/ˈfað(ə)m/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of fathom

To understand or comprehend something deeply or thoroughly, especially when it is complex, profound, or difficult to grasp.
"The mystery was so perplexing that no one could fathom it."

Detailed meaning of fathom

When we say we can fathom something, it indicates that we have the ability to unravel its intricacies or penetrate its depths, often implying a comprehensive understanding. "Fathom" can also refer to the measurement of depth, particularly in nautical contexts, where it represents a unit of measurement equal to six feet, emphasizing the depth of the water. However, when used metaphorically, "fathom" highlights our capacity to delve into and make sense of intricate or puzzling concepts, situations, or ideas, ultimately gaining insight and clarity.

Example sentences containing fathom

1. Even after years of study, scientists still struggle to fathom the full scope of the universe.
2. As a parent, it's hard to fathom the choices your children will make as they grow up.
3. The mathematician spent decades trying to fathom the intricacies of a particularly complex equation.
4. The artist's abstract works are designed to challenge the viewer's ability to fathom their meaning.
5. The depth of the ocean is so immense that it is nearly impossible for the human mind to fathom.
6. With a limited understanding of physics, I find it difficult to fathom the concept of time dilation.

History and etymology of fathom

The verb 'fathom' has a maritime etymology, originating from the Old English word 'fæðmian,' which meant 'to encircle with one's arms' or 'to embrace.' This term was primarily used in the context of measuring the depth of water, as sailors would drop a weighted line into the sea and use their outstretched arms to gauge the distance between the surface and the weight. The word 'fathom' then evolved to represent a unit of measurement equal to six feet, which was a common depth measurement for sailors. Metaphorically, 'fathom' came to signify understanding or comprehending something deeply or thoroughly, especially when it is complex or profound, much like the way one would embrace and measure the depths of the ocean. This nautical etymology beautifully illustrates the concept of grasping the profound or the mysterious, akin to measuring the fathomless depths of the sea.

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Further usage examples of fathom

1. The enormity of the galaxy makes it difficult for anyone to fully fathom the scale of cosmic events.
2. It's hard to fathom how such an experienced team could lose in the opening round of the tournament.
3. The detective needed to fathom the suspect's motives to solve the intricate and puzzling case.
4. To fathom the complexity of human emotions, psychologists utilize a variety of research methods.
5. To fathom the historical impact of an event, one needs to consider both short-term and long-term effects.
6. The writer tries to fathom the nature of love and loss through the stories of multiple characters.
7. Before making a critical business decision, it's essential to fathom the potential risks involved.
8. Philosophers have long tried to fathom the essence of human existence and the meaning of life.
9. As a musician, it's crucial to fathom the emotions that each piece of music is intended to convey.
10. The coach could not fathom how the team lost focus in such a crucial moment of the game.
11. Some people find it difficult to fathom abstract concepts without concrete examples.
12. To truly fathom a foreign culture, it helps to immerse yourself in its customs and language.
13. In the field of medicine, it's vital to fathom the causes of diseases to develop effective treatments.
14. For the average person, it can be challenging to fathom the mathematics behind quantum mechanics.
15. Although the novel is challenging, the reader is rewarded by trying to fathom its deeper themes.
16. The leaders of nations must fathom the potential consequences of their actions on a global scale.
17. Many find it hard to fathom how social media impacts mental health on such a widespread scale.
18. To truly fathom the crisis, journalists went to the heart of the conflict to report firsthand.
19. To fathom the concept of eternity, one has to step outside the limitations of human perception.
20. The actor needed to deeply fathom the psychology of his character to deliver a compelling performance.
21. Many older individuals find it difficult to fathom the rapid pace of technological advancements.
22. When exploring the cosmos, even the most seasoned astronomers struggle to fathom its vastness.
23. Trying to fathom the complexities of the human brain is one of the ultimate challenges in science.