The phrase "muffled oars" functions as a noun phrase, where "muffled" is an adjective describing the noun "oars."
/mʌfəld ɔːrz/
The term "muffled oars" refers to the sound made by oars when rowing a boat, specifically when the sound is muted or softened. This can occur due to the oars being used gently, underwater, or through a covering that dampens the sound. It's a term often used in literary contexts to evoke imagery related to calm waters or stealthy movement.
In terms of frequency, "muffled oars" is not commonly used in everyday conversation; rather, it tends to appear in literary works, poetry, or descriptions of serene or secretive scenarios involving watercraft.
The fishermen silently glided across the lake, their muffled oars barely breaking the surface.
Los pescadores se deslizaban silenciosamente por el lago, sus remos amortiguados apenas rompiendo la superficie.
In the misty dawn, the muffled oars created an atmosphere of tranquility that enveloped the small boat.
En la niebla de la mañana, los remos amortiguados creaban una atmósfera de tranquilidad que envolvía la pequeña embarcación.
As the rowboat made its way to the shore, the sound of the muffled oars echoed faintly in the quiet cove.
Mientras el bote a remo se dirigía a la orilla, el sonido de los remos amortiguados resonaba débilmente en la tranquila ensenada.
The phrase "muffled oars" itself may not be a common part of any idiomatic expression. However, it often surfaces in literary contexts or phrases that refer to subtlety, silence, or stealth.
He approached the conversation with muffled oars, trying to avoid creating waves.
Se acercó a la conversación con remos amortiguados, tratando de evitar crear olas.
The secrets of the lake lay beneath the surface, like muffled oars waiting for the right moment to break the silence.
Los secretos del lago yacían bajo la superficie, como remos amortiguados esperando el momento adecuado para romper el silencio.
In the stillness of the night, they rowed with muffled oars, hoping to slip past the watchful eyes.
En la quietud de la noche, remaron con remos amortiguados, esperando pasar desapercibidos ante los ojos vigilantes.
The word "muffled" originates from the Middle English word "moflen," meaning to cover or to wrap up, derived from the Old French "mofler." The term "oars" comes from the Old English "ār," which referred to a paddle or a tool used for rowing.
Synonyms: - Muted oars - Softened oars - Silenced oars
Antonyms: - Loud oars - Clattering oars - Unmuffled oars
In conclusion, "muffled oars" evokes a picturesque and tranquil scene, predominantly used in literary contexts, rather than in conversational English.