Awfulness: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'awful' comes from the Old English 'awe,' meaning fear, combined with 'full,' leading to a meaning of something that fills one with fear.
• Originally, 'awful' meant 'full of awe'; over time, its use shifted to describe something very negative or dreadful.

Psychology

• Experiencing feelings of awfulness can trigger the body's stress response, leading to anxiety and discomfort.
• The concept of awfulness can be subjective; what seems dreadful to one person may not affect another in the same way.

Literature

• In many classic works, the feeling of awfulness serves as a critical plot device, representing character struggles and moral dilemmas.
• Authors often use vivid descriptions of awfulness to evoke empathy or to heighten the dramatic effect in storytelling.

Pop Culture

• Shows and films often portray 'awfulness' in a comedic light, exaggerating bad situations to create humor (e.g., sitcoms).
• Social media often amplifies perceptions of awfulness, with viral posts drawing attention to societal issues and personal grievances.

Cultural Perspectives

• Different cultures interpret awfulness differently; in some places, certain situations deemed awful elsewhere may be treated more lightly.
• Awfulness in art can be found in expressions of despair and suffering, helping to communicate deep emotions and provoke thought.

This word's position of #33,569 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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• 33568 vertiginous
• 33569 awfulness
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