Chafe: meaning, definitions and examples

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chafe

 

[ tสƒeษชf ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

physical irritation

To chafe means to cause discomfort or irritation by rubbing against something. This often occurs when there is friction between the skin and clothing or other surfaces. Chafing can lead to redness, soreness, or even sores if not treated properly. It is commonly experienced during physical activities, especially in areas where skin is exposed to repetitive movement.

Synonyms

abrade, fray, irritate

Examples of usage

  • I chafed my thighs while running long distances.
  • The backpack straps chafed my shoulders.
  • Be sure to apply lotion to prevent chafing during the hike.
Context #2 | Verb

metaphorical irritation

Chafe can also refer to emotional or mental irritation. This usage typically describes a situation where someone's feelings are annoyed or aggravated due to certain conditions or behaviors. While the term is still related to discomfort, it extends beyond physical boundaries into the realm of relationships and personal interactions.

Synonyms

annoy, irritate, vex

Examples of usage

  • His constant interruptions chafed her patience.
  • The rules chafed at his desire for freedom.
  • Their differing opinions often chafed during discussions.

Translations

Translations of the word "chafe" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น esfregar

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เค˜เคฐเฅเคทเคฃ เค•เคฐเคจเคพ

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช scheuern

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ menggosok

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ั‚ะตั€ั‚ะธ

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ otarcie

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ใ“ใ™ใ‚Šใคใ‘ใ‚‹

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท frotter

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ frotar

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท ovalamak

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ๋ฌธ์ง€๋ฅด๋‹ค

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ูุฑูƒ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ otรญrat

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ otrieลฅ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๆ‘ฉๆ“ฆ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ drgniti

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ narta

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ า›ะฐััƒ

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช ๆ“ฆ

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ รงฤฑrpmaq

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ frotar

Etymology

The term 'chafe' originates from the Middle English word 'chafen,' which is derived from the Old French word 'chaufer,' meaning to heat or warm. This etymology reflects the idea of heat generated by friction, which is a fundamental part of the definition. The concept has evolved over centuries, with the meaning expanding to include not just physical irritation but also emotional or psychological discomfort. Chafe is commonly associated with activities that involve friction, often in a sporting or physical context, emphasizing the human experience of discomfort related to movement. Over time, the usage of 'chafe' has persisted in both formal and informal contexts, making it a versatile term in the English language.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,451, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.