Askance: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'askance' comes from Middle English 'ascance', which means 'to look sideways'.
• Its roots can be traced back to the Old French 'escan', meaning 'to look askew or skeptically'.
• The term has been used in English since the 16th century, showcasing its long-standing presence in the language.

Literature

• It appears in classic literature, including works by authors like Jane Austen and Charles Dickens, often used to depict suspicion.
• Poets often use this term to convey irony, as it evokes a deeper emotional and social context.
• The word has become a staple in narratives dealing with themes of doubt or lack of trust.

Psychology

• Reading body language can reveal askance looks, which indicate skepticism or distrust towards a situation or person.
• Research suggests that when people look askance, it’s often a natural response to perceived threats or dishonesty.
• In social interactions, a sideways glance can influence group dynamics and decision-making processes.

Pop Culture

• In films, characters often raise an eyebrow or give askance looks to express disbelief or suspicion.
• The term has been referenced in various songs and cultural critiques highlighting skepticism towards societal norms.
• Askance attitudes in popular media often reflect broader societal distrust toward authority figures.

Everyday Usage

• Commonly used in conversations to describe someone's doubtful reaction to something surprising.
• Colloquially, people might say they give something an 'askance look' to convey their uncertainty or mistrust.
• Askance has a matching sounding pair in 'ask' which emphasizes the questioning nature of the word.

Positioned at #24,263, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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