Chickened Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
chickened
[หtสษชk.ษnd ]
Definition
informal use
The term 'chickened' is a colloquial way of saying someone has shown cowardice or has backed out of a situation out of fear. It is often used in casual conversation to describe someone who has failed to go through with a challenging task or commitment. This particular usage is derived from the term 'chicken,' which is slang for a coward. The word implies a lack of bravery in the face of difficulty or danger.
Synonyms
backed down, fled, retreated, wavered.
Examples of usage
- He chickened out of the competition at the last minute.
- She chickened when it was time to speak in front of the crowd.
- They chickened after hearing the scary stories.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Feeling fear can trigger the 'fight or flight' response, causing people to avoid situations they perceive as dangerous.
- Studies show that social situations often cause anxiety, leading to avoidance behavior; some might say they 'chickened out' of attending a party.
- Fear of failure can be a strong motivator, leading individuals to hesitate or back off from challenges.
Pop Culture
- The phrase 'chicken out' has been featured in various movies and TV shows, often to depict characters who back down from a challenge.
- In the realm of music, the song 'Chicken' by the artist 'The Veer Union' explores themes of vulnerability and hesitation.
- Video games often depict characters who 'chicken out' of fights, reinforcing the cultural understanding of facing fear.
Literature
- In literature, characters often demonstrate varying responses to fear, with some 'chickening out' at crucial moments to highlight their development.
- Classic fables frequently involve characters who face fears, with those who 'chickened' being portrayed humorously or as lessons.
- The character of Peter Pan famously challenges the idea of growing up and facing fears, contrasting those who 'chicken out' from adventures.
Sociology
- Cultural perspectives on fear vary; in some societies, 'chickening out' can be viewed as a sign of weakness, while in others it can be understood as being cautious.
- Peer pressure can influence whether someone chooses to 'chicken out' or confront their fears, showcasing social dynamics at play.
- In group activities, those who 'chicken out' may affect othersโ decisions, fostering a communal atmosphere of encouragement or ridicule.
Origin of 'chickened'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'chickened out' likely comes from the behavior of chickens, which often appear timid and easily frightened.
- The use of 'chicken' to mean cowardly became popular in American English during the 1950s.
- The word 'chickened' is a past tense form, indicating the act of having shown fear or timidity in the past.
The term 'chicken,' meaning a coward, has its origins in the early 19th century. It likely comes from the common perception of chickens as timid creatures. This association is further reinforced by the behavior of chickens, who often flee from threats rather than confront them. The verb 'to chicken out' began to appear in print in American English in the 1930s, evolving into forms like 'chickened.' Over time, this became a recognizable variant used to describe someone who succumbs to fear. The phrase embodies a cultural understanding of bravery and the ridicule associated with cowardice, encapsulated in the playful yet derogatory nature of calling someone a 'chicken.' Thus, 'chickenedโ serves not only as a verb but as a reflection of societal attitudes toward courage and fear.