Bashing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bashing

[ˈbæʃɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

physical attack

Bashing refers to a violent and forceful blow or strike delivered to someone or something. It often implies a degree of brutality and can be associated with acts of aggression. The term can also reflect a form of criticism that is excessive and often unjustified. Bashing can occur in various contexts, including verbal disputes, physical altercations, and media commentary.

Synonyms

beating, hit, pounding, strike.

Examples of usage

  • The bullies were caught bashing another student.
  • The critic was accused of bashing the film without reason.
  • He was bashing the punching bag at the gym.
Context #2 | Noun

verbal attack

Bashing can also refer to a harsh or aggressive verbal attack or criticism directed towards individuals, groups, or ideas. It is often used in discussions of politics, culture, or social issues, where one party is heavily criticized by another. This usage emphasizes the intensity of the disapproval and can lead to polarizing opinions.

Synonyms

attacks, criticism, denunciation, harangue.

Examples of usage

  • The politician faced a lot of bashing from the media.
  • There was a bashing of the new policy during the meeting.
  • Online bashing has become a common issue for public figures.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • 'Bash' has been used in various films and TV shows, often in contexts involving conflict or intense debates.
  • In video gaming, 'bashing' can describe powerful attacks or moves characters can execute.
  • The term is also often used in internet culture, where a person or idea may be subjected to harsh critique or ridicule.

Psychology

  • Criticizing or 'bashing' can significantly impact someone's self-esteem and mental health.
  • Groupthink can lead to 'bashing' of opposing opinions, often resulting in echo chambers.
  • Research shows that public 'bashing' can lead to social isolation for those targeted.

Literature

  • Many authors incorporate 'bashing' as a theme in their work to show conflict and character development.
  • In poetry or prose, descriptions of violent 'bashing' can evoke strong imagery and emotions.
  • Literary critiques often result in 'bashing' of certain works, showcasing the polarizing nature of art and literature.

Sports

  • 'Bashing' can refer to aggressive tackling in contact sports like football or rugby.
  • In combat sports, 'bashing' denoted a fighter's overwhelming power and ability to dominate the opponent.
  • Criticism of athletes often involves 'bashing' their performance, which can impact their career and public perception.

Origin of 'bashing'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'bashing' comes from the Middle English word 'bashen', meaning to strike or hit.
  • It originally referred to physical striking before evolving to also include strong verbal criticism.
  • The use of 'bashing' in a figurative sense, particularly with criticism, became more popular in the late 20th century.

The word 'bashing' first emerged in the English language in the mid-20th century, originating from the verb 'bash,' which means to hit or strike with great force. The term is believed to have roots in the informal and colloquial speech of the working class in Britain and America. Usage of 'bashing' as a noun became prominent during the 1980s and 1990s, particularly in political contexts where individuals or policies were subjected to intense criticism. Over time, bashing has expanded in its application and is often used to describe not only physical violence but also emotional and verbal attacks in a variety of contexts, from social media disputes to workplace environments. The evolution of the term reflects broader societal changes regarding the language of conflict and criticism.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,198, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.