Conked Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฅ
conked
[kษลkt ]
Definition
Informal usage
The term 'conked' is an informal verb that means to hit someone or something with a sudden force, causing them to lose consciousness. It can also refer to the act of breaking down or failing suddenly, often used to describe a vehicle or machine that has unexpectedly stopped working. This slang expression is often encountered in conversation, particularly when discussing accidents or mechanical failures. Additionally, 'conked out' is a common phrase indicating exhaustion or sleep.
Synonyms
crashed, failed, hit, knocked.
Examples of usage
- He conked out after running the marathon.
- My old car conked in the middle of the road.
- She conked him on the head playfully.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- The phrase 'conked out' often appears in movies and songs to describe someone who falls asleep unexpectedly, adding a humorous twist.
- In a famous cartoon, a character craving sleep suddenly conks out while trying to stay awake, illustrating a relatable moment.
Psychology
- People often conk out when theyโve experienced high levels of stress or fatigue, showcasing how the body responds to emotional strain.
- Deep sleep is essential for mental restoration; when one conks, it signifies the body's need to recover.
Science
- Sleep experts recommend a consistent bedtime to avoid conking out at inappropriate times, which can disrupt sleep cycles.
- When mammals conk out, their brain waves shift to a slower pattern, indicating they are in a restful state.
Literature
- In various literary works, characters conking out can symbolize the escape from a chaotic world into the solace of sleep.
- Authors often use the concept of conking out as a metaphor for surrendering to circumstances, creating relatable narratives.
Origin of 'conked'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'conked' comes from the word 'conk', which was slang in the 1930s for hitting someone on the head.
- Itโs believed that the use of 'conk' for sleeping relates back to the experience of being knocked out, either through exhaustion or a blow.
The word 'conked' is believed to be derived from the noun 'conk', which in American English refers to the head. The usage of 'conk' to mean 'hit on the head' likely originated in the early 20th century and was popularized in various forms of media. The exact origins are somewhat unclear, but it is thought to stem from a combination of influences, including elements of slang from different regions and cultures within the United States. Over time, 'conked' evolved into the verb form, gaining popularity in colloquial speech. The term has found its way into various informal contexts, including discussions around accidents, mechanical failures, and everyday exhaustion, contributing to its versatility in modern language.