Duelling: meaning, definitions and examples
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duelling
[ˈdjuːəlɪŋ ]
Definitions
fighting competition
Duelling refers to a formalized combat between two individuals, often fought with weapons, to settle a dispute or prove honor. It was historically prevalent in Europe and often regulated by codes of conduct.
Synonyms
challenge, combat, contest, fight.
Examples of usage
- The two gentlemen resolved their conflict through duelling.
- Duelling was once a common practice among aristocrats.
- He challenged his rival to a duelling match at dawn.
- The code of honor dictated that duelling was the only way to regain lost respect.
to engage
To duel means to participate in a duel, engaging in a pre-arranged confrontation to settle a dispute. This term is often associated with historical or romanticized battles.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- They duelled at sunrise to defend their honor.
- The two knights dueled bravely in front of the crowd.
- He has challenged his opponent and plans to duel next week.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The practice of duelling can be traced back to medieval Europe, where knights would settle disputes through combat.
- Originally, these fights were often conducted with swords, reflecting the martial skills valued in noble society.
- Over time, the rules of duelling became formalized, leading to a code of conduct known as the 'duel of honor'.
Cultural Significance
- In 19th-century America, duelling was seen as a way to defend one's honor, often leading to political and personal conflicts.
- Famous duels in literature, like the one between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr, show how such contests could have significant political implications.
- Even today, duelling remains a popular theme in films and books, often romanticized as a noble or courageous act.
Psychological Perspective
- Dueling can be seen as a manifestation of human aggression and competition, where individuals elevate personal honor over life.
- Studies suggest that the desire to participate in a duel may arise from feelings of being disrespected or challenged publicly.
- Many psychologists view the historical trend of duelling as a reflection of societal norms about masculinity and honor.
Modern Context
- While traditional forms of dueling are largely outlawed, some modern practices, like competitive martial arts, echo the principles of these contests.
- Modern adaptations of duelling include friendly competition in sports, where participants compete under strict rules to determine a victor.
- In some cultures, duelling persists in symbolic forms, like verbal confrontations or high-stakes competitions.
Translations
Translations of the word "duelling" in other languages:
🇵🇹 duelo
🇮🇳 दुश्मनी
🇩🇪 Duell
🇮🇩 duel
🇺🇦 дуель
🇵🇱 pojedynek
🇯🇵 決闘 (けっとう)
🇫🇷 duel
🇪🇸 duelo
🇹🇷 düello
🇰🇷 결투 (결투)
🇸🇦 مبارزة
🇨🇿 duel
🇸🇰 duel
🇨🇳 决斗
🇸🇮 dvoboj
🇮🇸 einstök
🇰🇿 жекпе-жек
🇬🇪 პოედიკი
🇦🇿 döyüş
🇲🇽 duelo