Befalling: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Old English 'befallan', meaning 'to fall upon' or 'to come upon'.
• In Middle English, it evolved into 'befalle', maintaining its meaning of something happening to a person.
• The prefix 'be-' implies around or about, connecting to the action of being affected by something.

Literature

• The concept of fate is often explored in literature, where characters face events that befall them, shaping their journeys.
• Shakespeare’s plays frequently show characters dealing with events that befall them unexpectedly, highlighting the unpredictability of life.
• In many fairy tales, protagonists encounter challenges that befall them, leading to growth and adventure.

Psychology

• Unexpected events that befall individuals can trigger feelings of anxiety or excitement, depending on the nature of the event.
• The outlook on events that befall someone can be influenced by their mindset; viewing challenges positively can lead to resilience.
• Cognitive psychology examines how people assign meaning to events that befall them, impacting their mental health.

Pop Culture

• In movies and TV shows, plot twists often involve surprising events that befall characters, keeping audiences engaged.
• The idea of fate and what befalls a character is a popular theme in many popular songs and stories, reflecting life’s unpredictability.
• Reality TV shows often highlight what befalls contestants, creating tension and drama as they navigate unexpected challenges.

Ranking #36,251, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

• ...
• 36248 laved
• 36249 gusher
• 36250 pizzeria
• 36251 befalling
• 36252 wattled
• 36253 begrudged
• 36254 harked
• ...