Bedevilled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
bedevilled
[bษชหdษvยทษld ]
Definition
suffering distress
Bedevilled refers to being tormented or afflicted by something, often used to describe a person who is troubled or plagued by persistent problems or negativity. This term implies a sense of chaos or confusion commonly associated with being overwhelmed by unfortunate events.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She felt bedevilled by constant distractions while studying.
- His plans were bedevilled by unforeseen complications.
- They were bedevilled by a series of unfortunate events.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- The term frequently appears in literary works to depict characters overcome with doubt or misfortune.
- Authors like Shakespeare used related phrases to convey the tormenting influence of fate on individuals.
- In modern literature, it often symbolizes a struggle against inner demons or external challenges.
Psychology
- The feeling of being 'bedevilled' can relate to anxiety, where persistent worries torment an individual.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy often targets these 'devil-like' thoughts to help patients regain control over their minds.
- Understanding one's 'bedevilling' thoughts can be key in overcoming stress and depression.
Pop Culture
- Movies often depict protagonists who are 'bedevilled' by villains or circumstances, driving the plot forward.
- In the world of video games, characters often face challenges that can be described as 'bedevilling' due to their difficulty.
- Songs and literature frequently explore themes of being 'bedevilled', resonating with audiences experiencing their own struggles.
Religion
- In certain religious narratives, individuals may feel 'bedevilled' by temptations or moral trials set by evil forces.
- Many religious texts warn against the 'devil' as a source of confusion and distress for believers.
- The concept is used to illustrate the struggle between good and evil in both personal and communal contexts.
Origin of 'bedevilled'
Main points about word origin
- The word combines 'be-' meaning 'to make or cause' with 'devil', referring to being tormented as if by a devil.
- This term has roots in Middle English, where 'bedevil' was used to describe someone plagued by troubles.
- In various texts, 'bedevilled' has been used since the 17th century to highlight distress or confusion.
The word 'bedevilled' has its roots in Middle English, where it originated from the word 'bedevelen', which combined the prefix 'be-' meaning 'about' or 'all around' and 'devil' referring to the malevolent being. The term has evolved over time to express the act of being caused distress or trouble, metaphorically suggesting that one is 'deviled' or beset by evil forces or misfortune. The usage of 'bedevilled' in literary contexts can be traced back to the 14th century, where it was often employed in folklore and religious texts to describe characters who were afflicted by evil or misfortune. Today, 'bedevilled' is commonly used in various contexts, extending beyond its original connotation to encapsulate a broad range of distressing experiences, both personal and professional.