Fowled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fowled

[faʊld ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

past tense

Fowled is the past tense of foul, which can mean to make or become dirty or polluted. In a broader context, it often refers to causing disruption or harm, particularly in sports or games.

Synonyms

blemished, spoiled, tainted.

Examples of usage

  • He fowled the ball during the match.
  • The players were penalized for having fowled each other repeatedly.
  • She accidentally fowled the water with her chemicals.
  • They fowled the air with emissions from the factory.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In Shakespeare's works, imagery of being 'fowled' often symbolizes moral corruption or chaos.
  • Contemporary poetry sometimes uses 'fowled' to express emotional or psychological states, representing feelings of being trapped or overwhelmed.
  • Many classic tales use fowling as a motif to signify loss or misfortune, portraying characters caught in their own situations.

Environmental Science

  • The phrase 'fowled waters' refers to polluted water bodies that are unsafe for wildlife and humans alike.
  • Human activities like industrial waste disposal can lead to environmental fowling, causing severe ecosystem damage.
  • Cleaning up fowled environments often requires substantial efforts and innovative strategies to restore health.

Folklore

  • Many cultures have folklore about birds getting fowled in traps, symbolizing human struggles and the need for freedom.
  • In some Native American traditions, birds represent the spirit, and being fowled reflects a loss of that spirit's purity.
  • Fables often illustrate the consequences of a fowled environment, where animals succumb to human negligence.

Origin of 'fowled'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'fowled' comes from Middle English, deriving from the word 'foul', which means dirty or unpleasant.
  • It originally referred to catching or trapping birds, indicating a state of being ensnared or polluted.
  • Over time, the word evolved to describe not just birds but any situation that has gone awry.

The word 'foul' has roots in Old English 'fūl', which means 'foul, dirty, or filthy'. This term traces back to Proto-Germanic origins, specifically from the word 'fōla', which conveyed a similar meaning. Over time, the usage extended beyond physical dirtiness to encompass actions and behaviors that are considered morally or legally objectionable. The transformation into its verb form and the extension into different contexts, such as in sports and environmental discussions, highlight its evolving nature in the English language. The transition into 'fowled' as its past form showcases the verb's grammatical adaptations. In sporting contexts, fouling has become a crucial part of rules and regulations, emphasizing the significance of maintaining fairness and respect within competitive scenarios.