Connived Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ค
connived
[kษหnaษชvd ]
Definition
secretly scheming
The term 'connived' refers to the act of secretly allowing something bad to occur or being complicit in dishonest or unethical behavior. When someone connives, they often do so with a degree of cunning or deceit, implying an understanding of the wrongness of their actions. This word is frequently associated with conspiratorial behavior and suggests a lack of integrity. In literature and everyday speech, it often conveys a sense of betrayal and manipulation.
Synonyms
collude, conspire, intrigue, plot, schemed.
Examples of usage
- They connived to undermine the project.
- She connived with her friends to play a prank.
- The villains connived to steal the treasure.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- In Shakespeare's 'Othello,' characters connive against each other, showcasing themes of jealousy and betrayal.
- The term is often used in noir fiction, where characters plot and scheme under the surface, reflecting moral ambiguity.
- Classic novels frequently explore the consequences of conniving behaviors, highlighting the tension between appearance and reality.
Psychology
- Studies show that individuals who connive often exhibit traits like low empathy, making them less likely to understand the harm they cause.
- The act of scheming can trigger a dopamine response, as successful manipulation or trickery can create a sense of exhilaration.
- People who connive may rationalize their behavior, believing their actions are justified, which is a common psychological defense mechanism.
Pop Culture
- Television shows like 'House of Cards' highlight political conniving, illustrating the darker side of ambition and power.
- In many heist movies, characters connive to outsmart security and achieve their goals, often blurring moral lines.
- Reality TV often thrives on conniving relationships, as participants collaborate in secret to manipulate outcomes.
History
- Throughout history, many political conspiracies involved leaders conniving to maintain power or eliminate rivals.
- The Gunpowder Plot of 1605 is a historical example where a group connived to blow up the English Parliament to assassinate King James I.
- During the Cold War, various nations engaged in conniving strategies to outwit one another in diplomacy and espionage.
Origin of 'connived'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'connivere,' which means 'to close one's eyes to,' suggesting a form of willful ignorance.
- It was first recorded in English in the early 17th century, indicating a long history in literary and social contexts.
- The prefix 'con-' means 'with,' while '-nive' relates to 'to wink,' reflecting the idea of collusion in secrecy.
The word 'connive' originates from the Latin 'connivฤre', meaning 'to close the eyes to'. This term is a combination of the prefix 'con-', meaning 'together', and 'nivฤre', meaning 'to wink'. The concept of winking at something implies a tacit consent to wrongdoing, which is central to the meaning of conniving. Over time, the word evolved in the English language, initially appearing in the late 15th century, where it was used to describe secret understanding or collusion. The negative connotation of the word became more pronounced as it was adapted into more common usage, especially in literary works that depict treachery and hidden agendas.
Word Frequency Rank
At rank #29,761, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.
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- 29758 interceptors
- 29759 recuperative
- 29760 slicked
- 29761 connived
- 29762 tress
- 29763 marsupial
- 29764 flaxen
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