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Conking Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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conking

[kɔŋkɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

informal usage

Conking typically refers to the act of losing consciousness or falling asleep abruptly, often due to exhaustion or being overwhelmed. The term can also imply a sudden stop or failure, especially in mechanical contexts such as engines or motors. This slang is associated predominantly with informal speech.

Synonyms

collapse, drop, faint, pass out.

Examples of usage

  • I was so tired that I just conked out on the couch.
  • His headache made him conk during the meeting.
  • The old car tends to conk after driving for a long time.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • In classic cartoons, characters often 'conk' each other, leading to exaggerated comedic moments.
  • The phrase 'conk out' is commonly used to describe a machine or vehicle stopping working suddenly, showcasing its varied meanings.

Psychology

  • Physical impacts to the head can cause concussions, leading to confusion and dizziness – attributes often found in comedic portrayals of conking.
  • People often remember cartoon behavior of conking others more vividly than serious discussions about head injuries.

Literature

  • In comic strips, the act of conking someone is often used to show conflict or humor, highlighting a character's misfortune.
  • Authors sometimes use 'conking' as a metaphor for unexpected interruptions in a character's journey, adding humor or tension.

History

  • The phrase gained popularity in the mid-20th century, often appearing in comics and radio shows depicting slapstick humor.
  • Head injuries have been historically viewed in various cultures as a sign of combat or punishment, which can be represented through the act of conking.

Origin of 'conking'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'conk' originated in the early 20th century, derived from the slang for hitting someone on the head.
  • In African American Vernacular English, 'conk' also refers to a hairstyle popular for straightening curly hair, showing the versatile use of the word.

The term 'conk' as a verb originates from the early 19th century, possibly as a variation of the older word 'conk out', which carries a similar meaning of losing consciousness or failing. The word has a somewhat informal and colloquial tone, making it common in casual conversation. The use of 'conk' might also be related to the physical act of hitting one's head (a 'conk' is sometimes used to describe a blow to the head), leading to a loss of consciousness. Additionally, the word has been absorbed into various dialects of English, often used in a humorous or light-hearted manner. Over time, it has seen a broadened definition to include any situation where someone falls asleep suddenly or an engine unexpectedly stops working.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #42,623, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.