Goldbricker Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ผ
goldbricker
[หษกoสldหbrษชkษr ]
Definition
colloquial term
A goldbricker is a term used to describe a person who avoids work or responsibility, often by pretending to be busy or engaged in tasks while doing little to no actual work. This diminishes productivity and can be seen in various workplaces. The term has a somewhat negative connotation, suggesting deceitfulness and a lack of integrity in one's professional duties.
Synonyms
idler, loafer, malingerer, shirker, slacker.
Examples of usage
- He's such a goldbricker; he manages to get paid while contributing almost nothing.
- The team found out that a goldbricker was holding them back from achieving their goals.
- I can't stand goldbrickering coworkers who make everyone else do their share of the work.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Popular Culture
- In modern usage, 'goldbrick' appears in film and literature, often to describe lazy characters or workers.
- The 1940 film 'Goldbrickers' is a direct reference to people who avoid hard work, illustrating the termโs cultural impact.
Psychology
- Individuals exhibiting goldbricking behavior may struggle with motivation or may feel overwhelmed by their responsibilities.
- This behavior can stem from a fear of failure, leading others to avoid genuine effort.
Business and Economy
- In the workplace, goldbrickers can impact team morale, as their lack of effort can place extra responsibility on others.
- Identifying and addressing goldbricking in organizational settings can improve productivity and employee satisfaction.
Social Commentary
- The concept often raises discussions around entitlement and accountability in modern society, where some may exploit systems for personal gain.
- Social media sometimes amplifies goldbricking behavior, where individuals present themselves as busy or successful without substantial work behind it.
Origin of 'goldbricker'
Main points about word origin
- The term originated in the early 20th century in the United States, combining 'gold' (something valuable) and 'bricker' (to pretend).
- It was popularized by soldiers during World War I as a slang term for those who shirked their duties.
The term 'goldbricker' is believed to have originated in the United States during World War I. It is derived from the word 'goldbrick', which originally referred to a type of fraudulent or worthless gold-plated object. During the war, soldiers used the term to describe individuals who falsely pretended to have a disability or illness to avoid combat duties, thus evading their essential responsibilities. Over time, the meaning expanded to encompass anyone who tries to evade work in a general sense, not just in military contexts. The term captures the essence of dishonesty through pretense and has been applied broadly in various occupations, especially where teamwork and shared effort are crucial.