Exiling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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exiling

[หˆษ›ksaษชlษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

punishment, banishment

Exiling refers to the act of banishing or expelling someone from their native country or home, often as a form of punishment. It has historically been used as a tool for government control, preventing dissent and opposition from challenging authority. The practice can have devastating effects on the individual, as they are stripped of their rights and connections to their homeland. Exile can be voluntary or involuntary, and it may lead to a permanent separation from family and friends, as well as cultural dislocation.

Synonyms

banishment, deportation, exile, expulsion.

Examples of usage

  • The dictator ordered the exiling of his opponents.
  • After the coup, many opposition leaders faced exile.
  • She chose exile rather than face persecution.
  • The author lived in exile for years before returning.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • Throughout history, many leaders were exiled for political reasons, such as Napoleon Bonaparte, who was sent to the island of Elba.
  • Exiling has often been used as a punishment for crimes against the state, seen in ancient empires like Rome and Greece.
  • In ancient Greece, citizens could be exiled as a form of precaution against potential tyranny through a process called ostracism.

Cultural Significance

  • Exile has been a powerful theme in literature, producing notable works such as Dante Alighieriโ€™s 'The Divine Comedy' and Ovidโ€™s 'Metamorphoses.'
  • In many cultures, being exiled symbolizes loss and longing, often explored in songs and poetry reflecting on home and identity.
  • Many artistic movements were influenced by exile, giving rise to unique styles as artists sought to express their dislocation and yearning.

Psychological Impact

  • Being exiled can lead to a sense of isolation and loneliness, significantly impacting mental health and well-being.
  • Studies show that forced separation from one's community can create a feeling of loss and alienation, influencing individual identity.
  • The experience of exile often results in individuals developing a complex view of belonging and home, impacting relationships later in life.

Political Dynamics

  • Exiling opponents has been used as a political tool throughout history, aiming to remove threats to authority and stability.
  • In modern contexts, countries may engage in diplomatic exile, where dissenters are invited to leave for safety but without persecution upon return.
  • Many countries recognize exiled individuals as refugees, providing legal status and support to those who have fled oppressive regimes.

Global Variations

  • Practices related to exile vary around the world, with some nations offering asylum to exiles from repressive governments, while others continue the tradition of punishment.
  • Communities around the world have different beliefs about exiled individuals, with some viewing them as heroes standing against oppression, while others see them as traitors.
  • Historically, exile has led to the formation of diaspora communities, which maintain cultural ties even while being physically separated from their homeland.

Origin of 'exiling'

The term "exile" comes from the Latin word "exilium", which means 'banishment' or 'exile'. This Latin term is derived from the verb "exilire", meaning 'to leap out' or 'to be thrust out'. Over time, the concept of exile has evolved, carrying significant weight in both legal and cultural contexts. Historical figures such as Napoleon Bonaparte and Dante Alighieri were exiled, highlighting the practice's use as a political tool throughout history. The ramifications of exile extend beyond the individual, impacting families and communities for generations. In the modern context, exile serves as a reminder of the struggles for freedom and the human condition's profound connections to place and identity.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,284, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.