Flared

Podcast 1 · Introduction

Flared

A documentary-style narration: origin, meaning, and feel.

Part of speech

adjective and verb (past tense of 'flare')

Pronunciation

FLAIRD  /flɛːd/

Definition

As an adjective: widened or spread outward toward the bottom or end; (of nostrils) dilated. As a past tense verb: burned with a bright, sudden light; spread outward; (of a situation) became suddenly more intense or violent.

Plain meaning

Spread outward at the bottom or end — like flared trousers, wide at the hem. Also: suddenly burned brightly, or suddenly became intense.

Register

Neutral. Fashion and design in the shape sense; dramatic and journalistic in the intensity sense.