SACKCLOTH Meaning and
Definition
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Sackcloth is a noun that refers to a coarse, rough, and often dark-colored fabric, typically made from hemp or jute fibers. It is commonly associated with mourning or penitence, and historically worn as a sign of grief or repentance. The word "sackcloth" is derived from the combination of "sack," a type of coarse cloth, and "cloth," implying a piece of fabric.
The term is often used metaphorically to describe a state of mourning, sorrow, or extreme repentance. In biblical and historical contexts, sackcloth was worn by individuals seeking to demonstrate deep remorse or contrition for their actions. The somber material represented a humble and tangible expression of personal sorrow, often accompanied by acts of self-mortification or prayer.
Sackcloth additionally carries symbolic connotations of humility, humbleness, and self-denial. It represents a renunciation of worldly pleasures and a focus on spiritual reflection or penitential practices. Today, the use of sackcloth has become less common, but it is still occasionally employed in religious or ceremonial contexts to convey expressions of grief or regret.
Overall, sackcloth refers not only to a type of coarse fabric but also embodies deep emotional meaning as a symbol of mourning, repentance, and humility.
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Coarse rough cloth worn for mortification, or as a mark of mourning or distress.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SACKCLOTH
- aackcloth
- zackcloth
- xackcloth
- dackcloth
- eackcloth
- wackcloth
- szckcloth
- ssckcloth
- swckcloth
- sqckcloth
- saxkcloth
- savkcloth
- safkcloth
- sadkcloth
- sacjcloth
- sacmcloth
- saclcloth
- sackkcloth
- sackchoth
- sackkleth
- sackcleth
Etymology of SACKCLOTH
The word "sackcloth" has its roots in Old English. The term comes from the combination of the words "sacke" (sack) and "cloþ" (cloth).
"Sack" referred to a coarse, loosely woven fabric made from the fibers of the flax plant. This fabric was commonly used for making bags (sacks) for holding various materials such as grains, produce, or goods.
"Cloth" is a general term for any kind of woven or knitted material. It has its origin in Old English and is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "kluthaz" which meant "a piece of cloth or clothing".
Over time, the word "sackcloth" evolved to specifically refer to a type of rough, coarse cloth made from hemp or the fibers of the flax plant.
Idioms with the word SACKCLOTH
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wear sackcloth and ashes
The idiom "wear sackcloth and ashes" refers to expressing extreme remorse, penitence, or grief for one's wrongdoings or a disastrous event. It originates from ancient times when individuals would wear coarse sackcloth and sprinkle themselves with ashes as symbols of mourning, repentance, or deep sorrow.
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sackcloth and ashes
The idiom "sackcloth and ashes" refers to a symbolic act of expressing extreme remorse, grief, or penance. It originates from biblical times, wherein the wearing of sackcloth, a coarse material, and sprinkling ashes on one's head were signs of mourning or repentance. In modern usage, it often represents deep sorrow or regret, sometimes in response to a personal mistake or a tragic event.
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in sackcloth and ashes
The phrase "in sackcloth and ashes" is an idiomatic expression that refers to expressing deep remorse or guilt, often symbolized by wearing rough, uncomfortable clothing (sackcloth) and sitting in ashes. It originates from biblical times when these were traditional signs of repentance or mourning. Figuratively, it denotes extreme self-reproach or contrition for one's actions or mistakes.
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wear, put on, etc. sackcloth and ashes
To "wear, put on, etc. sackcloth and ashes" is an idiomatic expression that originates from biblical times. It refers to an act of extreme remorse, repentance, or mourning. In the past, people would wear coarse, uncomfortable sackcloth and sprinkle ashes on their heads as a symbolic gesture to show deep sorrow or grief. Thus, using this phrase figuratively implies that someone is publicly expressing their profound regret or sadness for something they have done wrong.
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