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Conniption Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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conniption

[kəˈnɪp.ʃən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

emotional outburst

A conniption is a sudden fit of rage or hysterics, often accompanied by exaggerated crying or shouting. It usually occurs in response to something perceived as shocking or distressing. The term can also refer to a severe emotional upset. People may experience conniptions when they are overwhelmed or frustrated by an unexpected situation. It’s commonly used in informal contexts to describe overreactions to minor annoyances.

Synonyms

fit, hysteria, outburst, tantrum.

Examples of usage

  • She had a conniption when she saw the mess in the kitchen.
  • His conniption over the late train was quite entertaining.
  • Don't have a conniption; it's not the end of the world.
  • The child threw a conniption fit when denied candy.
  • Her conniption was humorous to everyone watching.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • The term has made appearances in television shows and movies, often used for comedic effect when characters overreact.
  • In literary works, the word has been used to portray characters experiencing extreme frustration or disbelief.

Psychology

  • A conniption can relate to emotional responses when stress builds up, leading to an explosive reaction.
  • It often reflects the human experience of feeling overwhelmed, highlighting the importance of managing emotions in healthy ways.

Historical Context

  • Though its exact origin is unclear, the term was popularized in American English in the late 1800s.
  • It reflects a time when expressing emotional intensity was considered dramatic yet relatable in society.

Linguistic Usage

  • The word is often employed in informal conversations, emphasizing surprise or disappointment during an emotional outburst.
  • It’s not commonly used in formal writing, highlighting its place in everyday speech with a flair of humor.

Origin of 'conniption'

Main points about word origin

  • The word likely comes from the 19th century, potentially derived from 'conniption fit', a phrase used in America.
  • Some think it combines 'nervous' and 'seizing', suggesting a serious emotional fit that affects both mind and body.
  • It’s often used in a humorous context, reflecting a cultural tendency to downplay intense feelings.

The word 'conniption' is derived from the early 19th-century American English, likely influenced by the dialects of the southern United States. It is believed to have originated as a combination of the words 'connip' and '-tion,' where 'connip' is a colloquial term for a fit of rage or anger. The exact etymology is uncertain, but it has been suggested that it is related to the word 'coniption,' derived from the Latin 'conipere,' meaning 'to take suddenly.' The first recorded use of 'conniption' dates back to the 1830s, and it has since become popular in casual conversation as a humorous way to describe someone's overly dramatic reaction or emotional meltdown.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,156, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.