Raw describes something in its natural, unprocessed, or uncooked state, such as raw meat or raw materials. It can also describe emotions that feel very strong and painful, or skin that is sore and red.
It comes from Old English “hrēaw,” meaning “uncooked,” from Proto-Germanic “*khraiwaz.” The figurative senses of “untrained,” “emotional,” or “sore” developed later from the idea of something not yet protected or finished.
When people talk about “raw emotion” or “raw talent,” they’re treating feelings and abilities like uncooked food—powerful, but not yet shaped. The same word that warns you about raw chicken also tells you when art or honesty hits a nerve.
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