Bickered: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word has roots in the Middle English word 'bikeren' which means to quarrel or argue playfully.
• It may also be related to the Dutch word 'bikkeren', referring to a fuss or squabble.
• Bickering was notably common among siblings, as early as the 16th century, to illustrate everyday family life.

Psychology

• Bickering is seen by psychologists as a normal way for people to express their differences in a less serious context.
• Frequent bickering can indicate a close relationship, revealing comfort levels between the individuals involved.
• Research shows that couples who bicker are often better at communicating their feelings and resolving deeper issues.

Pop Culture

• Many famous cartoon characters, like Tom and Jerry, often engage in bickering, which adds humor and relatability to their interactions.
• In films, bickering is a common trope that illustrates chemistry between characters, such as in romantic comedies.
• TV sitcoms frequently use bickering between family members to generate relatable and comedic scenarios that audiences enjoy.

Literature

• Classic literature often depicts sibling or couple bickering to showcase the dynamics of relationships, like in Jane Austen's novels.
• Many poets use bickering as a metaphor for deeper conflicts in their works, highlighting the complexity of human emotions.
• In children’s books, friendly banter or bickering often serves to teach children important lessons about resolving differences.

Cultural Perspectives

• In some cultures, light-hearted bickering is seen as a sign of affection and intimacy within relationships.
• Certain societies view bickering differently, where it can be misinterpreted as hostility rather than playful interaction.
• Cultural narratives often celebrate playful arguments in family gatherings, reinforcing bonds and fostering open communication.

Ranking #38,158, 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.

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• 38155 giggly
• 38156 bludgeoning
• 38157 revaluing
• 38158 bickered
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• 38160 italicize
• 38161 doppelganger
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