Doused Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Pop Culture

• In movies, characters often douse fires dramatically to save the day or to create tension and suspense.
• The expression 'doused in reality' is often used in literature and media to describe someone facing hard truths.
• Culinary shows often feature chefs who douse foods in sauces or liquids to enhance flavors.

Science

• In fire safety, dousing is a critical step to ensure flames are completely extinguished, preventing re-ignition.
• Water is commonly used for dousing fires because it cools the flames and removes the heat needed to sustain combustion.
• Dousing a chemical fire often requires specific agents, as water can sometimes cause harmful reactions.

Idioms and Expressions

• 'Doused in praise' suggests someone is receiving a lot of compliments or admiration.
• The phrase 'douse one's enthusiasm' means to dampen someone's excitement or motivation.
• People might say they feel 'doused with joy' to describe a moment of overwhelming happiness.

Literature

• In poetry, dousing is often used metaphorically to express emotional states, like dousing flames of anger with calmness.
• Classic literature sometimes describes heroes who are doused in challenges but rise strong – a metaphor for resilience.
• Many novels feature moments where characters are literally or figuratively doused in change, signaling a transformation.

Main points about word origin

• The word 'douse' comes from the Middle English 'dousen,' which means to extinguish or put out.
• It has roots in the Old French word 'dousser,' meaning to wet or soak.
• The use of 'douse' in English dates back to the 14th century.

The word 'douse' originated from the late Middle English term 'dousen,' which is thought to be derived from the Old French term 'dousser' meaning to 'wet or moisten.' It has evolved throughout the centuries, with its meanings broadening from specifically dealing with liquids, to its more general use as to extinguish or put out flames. In the context of extinguishing fires, it became particularly popular in the 16th century. The shift in usage reflects the changing nature of linguistic expression and the adoption of terms through different social influences. The word also carries connotations of controlling or managing something potent, like fire, emphasizing the human intervention in emergency situations.

At rank #29,665, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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