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Cooped Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cooped

[kuːpt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

confinement setting

The term 'cooped' typically refers to being confined or restricted to a small space, often leading to feelings of frustration or restlessness. It can describe both physical confinement, like being placed in a small enclosure or room, and metaphorical confinement, such as being trapped in a situation.

Synonyms

confined, cramped, restricted, shut in.

Examples of usage

  • The kids felt cooped up after being indoors all day.
  • After weeks of bad weather, I was starting to feel cooped.
  • He cooped himself in his room, avoiding social interaction.
  • The animals were cooped in a small barn during the storm.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Feeling cooped up can lead to stress and anxiety, as confinement often limits one's ability to move freely and feel comfortable.
  • Studies show that prolonged confinement can contribute to what psychologists call 'cabin fever', a sense of restlessness and irritation.
  • People often experience heightened emotions when feeling restricted, leading to a desire for freedom and open spaces.

Cultural References

  • In literature and film, being 'cooped up' often symbolizes a character's struggle or desire for freedom, adding depth to their development.
  • Songs and poems frequently use the imagery of being cooped up to express feelings of longing or unease.
  • References to being cooped up can also highlight themes of isolation, especially during dramatic moments in storytelling.

Social Impact

  • During lockdowns, many people expressed feeling cooped up due to restrictions on movement, emphasizing the importance of mental health.
  • The phrase 'cooped up' has led to discussions about social connectivity and the need for balanced interactions among people.
  • In response to feelings of being cooped up, many communities created outdoor events to help people reconnect with nature and others.

Nature

  • Birds and other animals, when cooped or confined, often exhibit stress behaviors, emphasizing the importance of space in animal welfare.
  • The design of chicken coops influences how birds' natural behaviors are affected by confinement, impacting their health and productivity.
  • Wild animals that are suddenly cooped up, such as during a rescue, may need time to adjust before they can be reintroduced into the wild.

Origin of 'cooped'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'cooped' comes from the word 'coop', which is often used to describe a small cage for animals, especially chickens.
  • The origin of the word can be traced back to the Latin 'cupa', meaning 'a tub' or 'vessel', showing how it relates to containing something.
  • It has been used in English since the late 15th century, originally referring to animals kept in confinement.

The word 'cooped' is derived from the Middle English 'cōpe', which referred to a small enclosure or pen for animals, particularly chickens. Its roots can be traced back to the Old English 'cūpe', which signified a small room or area. Over time, 'cooped' evolved to represent not only physical confinements but also the feeling of being trapped or restricted in various contexts, including social situations and emotional states. The metaphorical extension of the term illustrates the universal experience of confinement that can arise in daily life, as well as the longing for freedom and space.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,483, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.