Gulfing: meaning, definitions and examples
🍔
gulfing
[ ˈɡʌlf ɪŋ ]
eating quickly
Gulfing refers to the act of consuming food or drink in a hurried or excessive manner. It is often associated with a lack of mindfulness during eating, where individuals may not fully engage with the experience of their meal. This behavior can lead to overeating and digestion issues. Gulfing is generally viewed negatively due to its association with unhealthy eating habits.
Synonyms
chow down, devour, gobble, wolf down
Examples of usage
- He was gulfing down his lunch before the meeting.
- She knows she shouldn't be gulfing her food, but she was too hungry.
- Gulfing can lead to feeling uncomfortably full later.
- They often gulf their meals on busy workdays.
Etymology
The term 'gulfing' is derived from the verb 'gulf', which originally meant to swallow or engulf, suggesting an act of consuming something rapidly. The word 'gulf' has evolved over time from Old French 'golfer', meaning to swallow. Its usage in English dates back to the 14th century, originally relating to the act of devouring food or drink in a manner that resembles the swallowing of a large quantity at once, much like a gulf or a deep hole that takes in everything. Over the centuries, the expression has found its place in contemporary discussions about eating habits, particularly as people have become more aware of the consequences of poor eating practices and the need for mindful consumption.