Meaning of Word: Aspiration
Definitions and Meaning in English:
- Aspiration (noun): A strong desire or ambition to achieve something significant or meaningful.
- Aspiration (noun, medical): The act of drawing in or out by suction, such as breathing or removing fluids.
- Aspiration (noun, phonetics): The audible breath that accompanies the pronunciation of certain consonants.
History and Origin:
The word “aspiration” originates from the Latin aspiratio, derived from aspirare, meaning “to breathe upon” or “to strive for.” Initially used in a literal sense related to breathing, it evolved in Middle English during the 15th century to include figurative meanings of ambition and striving.
Detailed Explanation:
“Aspiration” commonly refers to a deep, strong desire to achieve something great, often requiring effort and determination. It is closely linked to personal goals, dreams, and ambitions. In medical contexts, it refers to the act of drawing fluids, such as during a medical procedure or when food enters the airway accidentally. In phonetics, it describes a burst of breath when pronouncing specific consonants, such as the “h” sound. The word embodies both physical and metaphorical connotations of reaching for or taking in something.
Example Sentences:
- Her aspiration to become a doctor motivated her to study tirelessly.
- The organization’s aspiration is to eradicate poverty through education.
- During the procedure, the surgeon performed an aspiration to remove excess fluid.
- He has high aspirations for his career and works hard to achieve them.
- The teacher encourages her students to pursue their aspirations with determination.
- Mispronunciation of “p” with too much aspiration can alter its clarity.
- Aspiration pneumonia can occur when food or liquids are accidentally inhaled into the lungs.
- His aspiration to travel the world inspired him to save diligently.
- The team shares a common aspiration to win the championship this year.
Synonyms with Short Explanation:
- Ambition – A strong desire to achieve success or a specific goal.
- Goal – The desired result or aim that one strives to achieve.
- Dream – A cherished hope or ideal for the future.
- Desire – A strong feeling of wanting something to happen or to possess.
- Endeavor – An effort to achieve a particular purpose or goal.
Related Words with Short Explanation:
- Vision – A mental image or plan of what one hopes to achieve.
- Hope – A feeling of expectation for a positive outcome.
- Motivation – The drive or reason behind actions and efforts.
- Determination – Firmness of purpose in pursuing a goal.
- Inspiration – A source of encouragement or stimulation for creative effort.
Antonyms:
- Apathy – Lack of interest, enthusiasm, or motivation.
- Complacency – A sense of satisfaction that prevents striving for more.
- Disinterest – Absence of enthusiasm or ambition.
- Indifference – Lack of concern or ambition toward achieving something.
- Resignation – Acceptance of a situation without effort to improve it.