Catcalling: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term 'catcall' originally referred to the sound made to attract a cat's attention, which later evolved into a way to signify drawing attention to people.
• In the 19th century, 'catcall' was also used to describe heckling a performer during a show, reflecting the action of calling out to get a response.

Cultural Impact

• The #MeToo movement has highlighted how catcalling is part of a larger issue of street harassment and gender inequality.
• Many cities have implemented campaigns to combat catcalling, recognizing its impact on public safety and personal comfort.

Psychological Effects

• Experiencing catcalling can lead to feelings of distress and anxiety, affecting a person's mental health.
• Studies suggest that many individuals who are catcalled often feel objectified and dehumanized, which can diminish their self-esteem.

Legal Context

• In some places, catcalling can be classified as a form of harassment, leading to legal implications for the offender.
• Various laws have been introduced to address public harassment, including catcalling, reflecting changing societal attitudes towards consent and personal boundaries.

Social Norms

• Responses to catcalling vary widely across cultures, with some societies actively discouraging it while others may consider it more acceptable.
• There is ongoing debate about the normalization of catcalling in media and its influences on behavior and public perceptions of gender roles.

At position #42,192, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.

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• 42189 indestructibly
• 42190 crouton
• 42191 balmiest
• 42192 catcalling
• 42193 shrived
• 42194 overbearingly
• 42195 imbiber
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