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Bawling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bawling

[ˈbɔːlɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

expressing emotion

Bawling refers to the act of crying loudly or uncontrollably. It is often associated with intense feelings such as sadness, frustration, or anger. People might bawl during moments of grief or when they are overwhelmed by emotions. This term portrays a more exaggerated form of crying, indicating a lack of restraint in expressing one's feelings. It can also describe someone who is yelling or shouting loudly in anger or excitement.

Synonyms

crying, shouting, sobbing, wailing, yelling.

Examples of usage

  • The toddler was bawling after losing his toy.
  • She began bawling when she heard the sad news.
  • He was bawling with joy at the surprise party.
  • The crowd started bawling with laughter at the comedian's jokes.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Crying, including bawling, is a natural emotional response that helps relieve stress and express feelings.
  • Studies suggest that loud crying can signal distress to others, fostering empathy in those who hear it.
  • Some research indicates that crying releases endorphins, which can help improve mood after the emotion is expressed.

Child Development

  • Babies often bawl to communicate needs such as hunger, discomfort, or tiredness, and it's a vital part of their development.
  • As children grow, expressing feelings through loud crying can indicate a lack of coping mechanisms for strong emotions.
  • Encouraging healthy ways to express emotions helps children learn to communicate better rather than resorting to bawling.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, characters often bawl during emotional scenes, emphasizing their pain or loss dramatically.
  • The term has been used in various popular songs to describe sadness, heartbreak, or emotional turmoil.
  • There is a common association in humor and memes linking the act of bawling to exaggerated reactions in stressful or comedic situations.

Literature

  • Bawling is frequently depicted in literature to convey deep grief, showcasing the character's vulnerability.
  • Famous authors have used exaggerated expressions of crying, including bawling, to reflect societal issues and the human condition.
  • In poetry, loud crying is often used as a metaphor for unexpressed emotions and the struggle for understanding.

Origin of 'bawling'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'bawling' comes from the Old English 'beallian', meaning to cry out loudly.
  • It has roots similar to other words that express loud vocalization, indicating an emotional release.
  • In various contexts, the term has evolved from general loud crying to include specific expressions of sorrow or frustration.

The word 'bawl' originates from the late Middle English term 'bawlen', which is likely an imitation of the loud, uncontrolled vocalizations associated with crying. Its roots can be traced back to the Old Norse word 'bǫla', meaning to cry out or shout. Over time, the meaning evolved to encompass not only crying but also loud vocal expressions of emotion. In literature and colloquial speech, 'bawling' has come to signify extreme displays of emotion, particularly in situations where the individual is overwhelmed by their feelings. Its usage has remained consistent in English, often depicting a more theatrical or intense form of weeping.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,094, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.