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Chickened: meaning, definitions and examples

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chickened

 

[ˈtʃɪk.ənd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • 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.

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 others’ decisions, fostering a communal atmosphere of encouragement or ridicule.

Translations

Translations of the word "chickened" in other languages:

🇵🇹 frango

🇮🇳 चिकन

🇩🇪 Hühnchen

🇮🇩 ayam

🇺🇦 курка

🇵🇱 kurczak

🇯🇵 鶏

🇫🇷 poulet

🇪🇸 pollo

🇹🇷 tavuk

🇰🇷 치킨

🇸🇦 دجاج

🇨🇿 kuře

🇸🇰 kurča

🇨🇳 鸡

🇸🇮 piščanec

🇮🇸 krybbur

🇰🇿 тауық

🇬🇪 ქათამი

🇦🇿 toyuq

🇲🇽 pollo

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,078, 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.