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Groveled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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groveled

[ˈɡrɒv.əld ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

to show humility

To grovel means to act in a subservient manner, showing excessive humility or deference. This behavior is often characterized by a willingness to please others, sometimes at the expense of one's own dignity. It can involve physical gestures, such as crawling or bowing, but more often describes an attitude of flattery or sycophancy. The term is often used negatively, as it implies a loss of self-respect.

Synonyms

crawl, cringe, fawn, flatter, slither.

Examples of usage

  • He groveled at her feet, begging for forgiveness.
  • After the argument, she began to grovel to her boss for a second chance.
  • The defeated candidate groveled before the media, hoping to win back support.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In many classic works, characters who grovel often reveal their deepest insecurities and desires for acceptance.
  • Shakespeare's plays frequently depict characters groveling when seeking forgiveness or favor, highlighting the theme of power dynamics.
  • Contemporary novels sometimes use the act of groveling to explore themes of redemption and personal growth.

Psychology

  • Psychologists note that groveling can stem from a desire for reconciliation and the fear of losing social connections.
  • Excessive groveling may indicate low self-esteem and can sometimes lead to a cycle of unhealthy relationships.
  • Understanding when and how to grovel can be linked to emotional intelligence, as it requires empathy and recognition of others' feelings.

Pop Culture

  • In films and television, characters often grovel in comedic or dramatic fashion, highlighting their desperation in humorous or serious situations.
  • Reality TV programs frequently showcase contestants who grovel for forgiveness or second chances after conflicts.
  • Songs and lyrics often reference groveling, using it as a metaphor for longing and regret in relationships.

Origin of 'groveled'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Old English word 'gruf', meaning to lie flat on the ground, reflecting the physical act of bowing down.
  • In the 14th century, 'grovel' was used to describe lying face down on the ground as an act of submission.
  • Over time, 'grovel' evolved to signify not just the physical act, but also a mental state of excessive humility.

The word 'grovel' originates from the Middle English term 'grovelen', which means to crawl or to drag oneself on the ground. This term itself is derived from the Old English term 'grufian', meaning to creep or crawl. Historically, 'grovel' has been associated with physical submission and humility, particularly during the medieval period when individuals would grovel before those of higher social status as a demonstration of loyalty or submission. Over time, the connotation of the word has evolved to include not just physical actions but also behaviors that express excessive deference in social or professional contexts. By the 16th century, it began to take on a more metaphorical sense, describing an attitude of abject submission or sycophancy. Its modern usage often carries a negative connotation, implying a loss of dignity in an attempt to gain favor or forgiveness.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,513, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.