Beast: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin term 'bestia', which means a wild animal or beast.
• In medieval times, 'beast' was often related to animals in fables and stories, especially in terms of moral lessons.
• Later, it evolved to describe not only animals but also people showing extreme behavior or strength.

Pop Culture

• In movies and books, beasts often represent the more primitive side of human nature, like in 'Beauty and the Beast'.
• The term is commonly used in video games to describe strong opponents that players need to defeat.
• Monsters and beasts are popular in fantasy genres, serving as both villains and creatures to be befriended.

Science

• In biology, larger predators in ecosystems are often referred to as 'beasts' due to their role as apex predators.
• The study of animal behavior, particularly in mammals, often references 'beastly' instincts, such as survival and reproduction.
• Some wild species referred to as beasts play crucial roles in maintaining the balance of their habitats.

Psychology

• The 'beast within' is a psychological concept used to describe the primal instincts and darker aspects of human nature.
• In literature and film, the metaphor of 'the beast' often symbolizes inner struggles and conflicts in characters.
• Accepting and understanding one's own 'beast' can be important for personal growth and self-discovery.

Literature

• Literary works often highlight the contrast between civilized humans and the 'beasts' within society.
• Fables often use beasts to teach moral lessons, as seen in Aesop's Fables, where characters are portrayed as animals with human traits.
• In classic literature, beasts often serve as allegories for various human flaws like greed, anger, or jealousy.

At #6,540 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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