Fuming Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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fuming
[ˈfjuːmɪŋ ]
Definitions
feeling
Extremely angry; furious.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| fuming |
This word is used when someone is extremely angry, often to the point where they are visibly upset. It implies a level of anger that is simmering beneath the surface, akin to steam rising from a boiling pot.
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| angry |
This is a general term for being upset or mad. It can be used in a wide variety of situations where someone is experiencing strong displeasure or annoyance.
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| infuriated |
This word implies a very high level of anger, to the point of feeling almost uncontrollable rage. It is similar to 'fuming' and 'incensed' but with an even more intense emotional response.
|
| incensed |
This term is used to describe someone who is extremely angry, to the point of being furious. It often suggests a strong reaction to something perceived as unjust or offensive.
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Examples of usage
- She was fuming when she found out he had lied to her.
- I could see that he was fuming with rage.
action
Show extreme anger; be furious.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| fuming |
This is suitable for describing someone who is extremely angry but trying to contain their anger, often with visible signs such as facial redness or clenched fists.
|
| rage |
This term is appropriate for describing an intense and often violent level of anger that has been unleashed. It's more severe than other forms and usually results in shouting or physical actions.
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| seethe |
Best suited to describe someone who is quietly but intensely angry. They might be trying to keep it in, but you can tell by their tense body language or clenched jaw.
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| storm |
This term usually describes someone who is not only very angry but also actively expressing it by moving around forcefully or speaking loudly. It can also imply sudden outburst.
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Examples of usage
- She was fuming at the unfair treatment.
- He was fuming about the delay in the project.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- The phrase 'fuming mad' is frequently used in literature, television, and movies to depict characters experiencing intense anger.
- In the animated series 'Angry Birds,' the characters often display fuming expressions when they are upset about losing eggs.
- Fuming has been a common trope in cartoons, where exaggerated steam or smoke coming out of the ears indicates a character's fury.
Psychology
- Studies show that physical expressions of anger, like fuming, can actually heighten feelings of frustration.
- The 'fight or flight' response often kicks in when someone is fuming, as a way of preparing the body to respond to perceived threats.
- Fuming can lead to conflicts, as angry communication often escalates situations rather than resolving them.
Literature
- 'Fuming' is a common theme in classic literature, where authors depict characters reaching their breaking point in emotional distress.
- Shakespeare often used anger metaphorically to illustrate human flaws, describing characters fuming over love and betrayal.
- Contemporary works also explore the nuances of fuming, connecting it to broader societal issues like injustice and frustration.
Science
- Fuming is not just an emotional state; it can actually trigger physical responses, including increased heart rate and blood pressure.
- When people are fuming, their brain releases stress hormones like cortisol, affecting their behavior and decision-making.
- The term 'fuming' has also been used in chemistry to describe the process of emitting vapors or gases, showing a link between emotional and physical reactions.
Origin of 'fuming'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'fuming' comes from the Latin 'fumare,' meaning 'to smoke.'
- In Middle English, 'fume' referred both to smoke and to a state of anger.
- The transition to current usage reflects a metaphor where anger is likened to smoke rising from boiling emotions.
The word 'fuming' originated from the Middle English word 'fumen', which means 'to smoke'. Over time, the meaning evolved to represent extreme anger or fury. The use of 'fuming' to describe intense anger has been documented in English literature for centuries, reflecting the universal experience of feeling heated emotions. Today, 'fuming' remains a vivid and powerful term to convey intense anger or rage.