Another Word For Fathom
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Meaning
The word "fathom" is a verb that means to understand or comprehend the depths of something, especially something complex or difficult to grasp. It can also refer to measuring the depth of water, typically with a nautical context.
Synonyms
- Understand
- Comprehend
- Grasp
- Figure out
- Discern
- Penetrate
Antonyms
- Misunderstand
- Confuse
- Overlook
- Ignore
- Disregard
Etymology
The word "fathom" comes from the Old English "fæðm," meaning "to embrace" or "to envelop." The term originally referred to the measurement of the length of a person's outstretched arms, which was used to measure depth, especially in relation to water.
Examples
- After hours of discussion, I finally began to fathom the complexities of quantum physics.
- The teacher had a unique way of explaining difficult concepts to help her students fathom the material.
- He couldn't fathom why anyone would choose to live in a place with such harsh winters.
- Despite his efforts, she remained an enigma he could not quite fathom.