Definitions Related words Phrases Mentions Lyrics History Easter eggs (New!)

Literary notes about nigh (AI summary)

The term “nigh” is wielded with notable versatility in literary works, often carrying a dual sense of proximity and imminence. Authors use it to signify both physical closeness and the approach of pivotal moments—for instance, signaling that destiny or doom is fast approaching as seen when destruction hovers nigh ([1]) or when life itself draws near the grave ([2]). In other contexts, it marks spatial proximity or a moral nearness, such as the urged closeness of a comrade in battle ([3]) or the divine presence that comes near to the faithful ([4], [5]). Additionally, spirited narratives employ “nigh” to evoke suspense and convey a nearing climax, as in scenes of impending danger or emotional devastation ([6], [7]). This nuanced usage enriches the language, underscoring both temporal urgency and the subtle gradations of relational closeness.
  1. For much I fear destruction hovers nigh:
    — from The Iliad by Homer
  2. 3 For cloy'd with woes and trouble store Surcharg'd my Soul doth lie, 10 My life at death's uncherful dore Unto the grave draws nigh. 4 Reck'n'd
    — from The Poetical Works of John Milton by John Milton
  3. Then said he: ‘From the wood ’tis fitting now That we depart; behind me press thou nigh.
    — from The Divine Comedy of Dante Alighieri: The Inferno by Dante Alighieri
  4. Neither is there any other nation so great, that hath gods so nigh them, as our God is present to all our petitions.
    — from The Bible, Douay-Rheims, Complete
  5. The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a contrite heart: and he will save the humble of spirit.
    — from The Bible, Douay-Rheims, Complete
  6. But King Arthur answered not, and gave him such a buffet on the helm as made him stagger and nigh fall upon the ground.
    — from The Legends of King Arthur and His Knights by Sir James Knowles and Sir Thomas Malory
  7. And when he had sharply and hotly rebuked them, he swore that he himself, nigh unto death although he lay, would lead them forth against the enemy.
    — from The Legends of King Arthur and His Knights by Sir James Knowles and Sir Thomas Malory

More usage examples

Also see: Google, News, Images, Wikipedia, Reddit, BlueSky


Home   Reverse Dictionary / Thesaurus   Datamuse   Word games   Spruce   Feedback   Dark mode   Random word   Help


Color thesaurus

Use OneLook to find colors for words and words for colors

See an example

Literary notes

Use OneLook to learn how words are used by great writers

See an example

Word games

Try our innovative vocabulary games

Play Now

Read the latest OneLook newsletter issue: Threepeat Redux