Catcalled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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catcalled
[ˈkæt.kɔːld ]
Definition
sexual harassment
Catcalled refers to the act of shouting or making unsolicited comments to someone in a public space, often with a sexual innuendo. This behavior is typically directed at women and can make the recipient feel uncomfortable or threatened. Catcalling is considered a form of street harassment and is often criticized for contributing to a culture of disrespect toward women. Many people view catcalling as an invasion of personal space and a violation of basic social etiquette.
Synonyms
heckled, shouted at, whistled at.
Examples of usage
- She walked past a construction site and was catcalled by the workers.
- Catcalling is a common experience for many women in urban areas.
- He felt it was inappropriate to catcall the women walking by.
- The campaign aimed to raise awareness about the negative impacts of being catcalled.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Sociology
- Studies have shown that catcalling often stems from societal views on gender power dynamics, where some individuals feel entitled to comment on another person's appearance.
- Victims of catcalling report feelings of discomfort and objectification, highlighting the impact on psychological well-being.
Pop Culture
- Catcalling is frequently addressed in movies and music, often serving as a critique of society's treatment of women.
- Several movements, like the 'Stop Street Harassment' campaign, utilize social media to raise awareness about the negative effects of catcalling.
Legislation
- In some places, catcalling and street harassment are being legally addressed by lawmakers, with proposals to make it punishable.
- This growing legal focus reflects societal shifts toward greater respect and protection for personal boundaries.
Psychology
- Research indicates that frequent exposure to street harassment can lead to increased anxiety and fear in public spaces among individuals who are targeted.
- Understanding catcalling as a form of micro-aggression helps highlight its subtle yet harmful impact on individuals' mental health.
Origin of 'catcalled'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'catcall' originally referred to the sound made by spectators in theaters to express disapproval or to ridicule.
- It was derived from the sound of a cat's call or meow, used metaphorically to indicate a type of noisy attention-seeking behavior.
The term 'catcall' has a long history that dates back to the 16th century. Originally, it referred to a type of noise made to express disapproval, much like a cat's call or the sound made by a hissing cat when it feels threatened. The association of 'catcall' with the act of shouting at someone, particularly in a derogatory or sexual manner, became prominent in the 20th century. The evolution of the term reflects changing societal norms and attitudes towards public interactions, particularly regarding gender dynamics and respect. Criticism of catcalling has increased in recent years, coinciding with broader discussions about consent and women's rights. As a result, catcalling is now widely recognized as a form of harassment that can have lasting effects on the victims.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #42,708, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.