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Gore: meaning, definitions and examples

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gore

 

[ ɡɔːr ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

bloodshed, violence

Gore refers to blood that has been shed, often resulting from violence or injury. It is commonly used in contexts involving graphic depictions, such as movies, literature, or discussions about war. The term can also describe the act of producing such bloodshed. Gore is often associated with horror genres, where excessive blood is a hallmark of the content. While the depiction of gore can evoke shock and horror, it also serves to illustrate the brutality of violence in a stark manner.

Synonyms

bloodshed, mutilation, slaughter, violence

Examples of usage

  • The film was criticized for its excessive gore.
  • The scene depicted the aftermath of a violent confrontation with much gore.
  • Some people find gore to be an essential part of horror stories.
  • The art exhibit showcased graphic images of historical gore.
  • Authors use gore to convey the grim realities of war.
Context #2 | Verb

to pierce or stab

To gore means to pierce or stab with a horn or tusk, typically associated with animals. This action results in a serious injury and can be lethal, especially when performed by large animals like bulls or wild boars. The term can also be used in a broader sense to describe inflicting severe damage or injury. In literature and cinema, goring is often depicted as a dramatic, visceral act, emphasizing power and violence.

Synonyms

impale, pierce, stab, wound

Examples of usage

  • The bull gored the matador during the fight.
  • Wild boars are known to gore when threatened.
  • The hunter described how the animal gored its prey.
  • In the film, the creature gored its victims mercilessly.
  • He gored the obstacle with great force during the competition.

Translations

Translations of the word "gore" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sangue

🇮🇳 खून

🇩🇪 Blut

🇮🇩 darah

🇺🇦 кров

🇵🇱 krew

🇯🇵 血

🇫🇷 sang

🇪🇸 sangre

🇹🇷 kan

🇰🇷 피

🇸🇦 دم

🇨🇿 krev

🇸🇰 krv

🇨🇳 血

🇸🇮 krv

🇮🇸 blóð

🇰🇿 қан

🇬🇪 სისხლი

🇦🇿 qan

🇲🇽 sangre

Etymology

The word 'gore' originates from the Old English term 'gor,' which means 'dirt' or 'filth.' Over time, its meaning evolved, particularly during the Middle Ages, to refer specifically to blood, especially blood that is shed violently. The association with bloodshed gained prominence in the 19th century, especially within the context of war and violence. The term is also related to similar words in Old Norse ('gorr') and has connections to the concept of 'gory' in literature, where it signifies graphic depictions of blood and violence. The modern usage of 'gore' often pertains to media referencing extreme violence, especially in horror movies and novels. The transition from its original meaning of 'dirt' to 'bloodshed' illustrates the language's evolution and the cultural significance of violence in storytelling.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,683, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.