Beastly: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Old English 'beast', referring to an animal or something wild.
• In the 14th century, 'beastly' meant 'animal-like' or 'savage', emphasizing a lack of humanity.
• The word evolved to describe not only animals but also very rude or ugly behavior.

Pop Culture

• The term 'beastly' is often used in movies and books to describe creatures that are frightening or monstrous.
• In the film 'Beauty and the Beast', the Beast embodies the complexity of the 'beastly' nature, showing both fear and compassion.
• The 'Beastly' 2011 movie adaptation of the classic tale features high school themes interwoven with the concept of attractiveness and inner beauty.

Psychology

• Describing behavior as 'beastly' can reflect a person's inner emotions, hinting they might feel angry or scared.
• The concept can be used to discuss human instincts and primal behavior that surface under stress.
• In some therapeutic settings, talking about 'beastly' feelings can help children express their fears or frustrations.

Literature

• Charles Dickens often used 'beastly' to describe the harsh conditions of society and the behavior of its characters.
• In 'Frankenstein', the creature is depicted as 'beastly', highlighting themes of loneliness and rejection.
• Shakespeare’s works reflect animalistic traits in characters through descriptors like 'beastly', showing their more raw emotions and actions.

Environmental Science

• The term can also describe harsh, damaging conditions in nature, like 'beastly' weather during storms.
• In discussions about animal behavior, 'beastly' can refer to survival instincts in the wild.
• Scientists sometimes use metaphorical language like 'beastly' to describe invasive species that disrupt ecosystems.

Positioned at #23,211, 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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