afar

UK: əˈfɑː | US: əˈfɑːr

Definition

  1. adv. at, to, or from a great distance

Structure
a <on, in, at>far <distant>
Etymology

The word "afar" combines the Old English prefix "a-" (meaning "on," "in," or "at") with "far" (from Old English "feorr," meaning "distant"). This construction literally translates to "at a distance" or "from a distance," reflecting its adverbial use to describe remoteness. The prefix "a-" is archaic in modern English but persists in a few adverbs like "afar," "aboard," and "aside."

Examples

  1. The mountains loomed afar, shrouded in mist.

  2. She gazed afar, lost in thought.

  3. News of his success spread afar.

  4. The ship sailed afar, beyond the horizon.

  5. Legends tell of kingdoms lying afar in the east.