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Gore: meaning, definitions and examples

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gore

 

[ɡɔːr ]

Definitions

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'gore' comes from Old English 'gār', which meant 'spear', as it relates to the wounds caused by sharp objects.
  • In Middle English, 'gore' referred to the bloodshed resulting from wounds, emphasizing the transition from a weapon to the consequence of its use.

Literature

  • Horror literature often uses graphic descriptions of injury or death to evoke strong emotional responses from readers.
  • Edgar Allan Poe is famous for his macabre tales, many of which include vivid descriptions of violence and death, setting a precedent for modern horror.
  • In Gothic novels, the portrayal of the grotesque and bloody was a way to explore deeper psychological fears and societal decay.

Film and Pop Culture

  • The horror film genre, which frequently showcases gore, has origins dating back to silent films, with classics like 'Nosferatu' featuring stark imagery.
  • Slasher films of the 1980s popularized the use of gore, making it a key element of the genre – think of 'Halloween' and 'Friday the 13th'.
  • In recent years, shows like 'Game of Thrones' raised the bar for depicting violence and gore, integrating it into complex narratives alongside political intrigue.

Psychology

  • Some studies suggest that viewing graphic violence can desensitize viewers to real-life violence, reducing empathetic responses.
  • The 'catharsis theory' posits that experiencing violent media can provide a release of pent-up emotions, albeit in a safe, controlled environment.
  • Conversely, excessive exposure to gory content can lead to increased anxiety or fear, particularly in young audiences who might struggle to differentiate fiction from reality.

Art

  • In art, depictions of gore can be seen in various movements, like Romanticism, where artists conveyed the sublime through violent or traumatic scenes.
  • The 'Memento Mori' genre often includes graphic imagery to remind viewers of mortality and the inevitability of death.
  • Contemporary artists sometimes use elements of gore to critique societal norms or explore themes of violence in a provocative manner.

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

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.