Duelling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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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.
Translations
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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.
Origin of 'duelling'
The term 'duelling' originates from the Latin word 'duellum', meaning 'war' or 'combat'. It evolved through Old French ' duel', which referred to a fight or combat between two individuals. In Medieval Europe, duelling became a common practice among nobles as a way to settle disputes of honor. The practice was codified in various 'codes of honor' that outlined the rules and acceptable conduct during a duel. During the 18th and 19th centuries, duelling reached its peak in popularity, often characterized by formal challenges, seconds (companions who assisted in the duel), and specific weaponry. Although it has largely fallen out of favor due to legal and social changes, the concept of duelling remains a significant part of cultural depictions of honor and rivalry.