Henpecked: meaning, definitions and examples

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henpecked

 

[ ˈhɛnˌpɛkt ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

relationship dynamic

Henpecked describes a man who is dominated or continually criticized by his wife or partner. It often implies a sense of submissiveness on the man's part, suggesting that he is often under the control or influence of his spouse.

Synonyms

controlled, dominated, submissive

Examples of usage

  • He felt henpecked by his overly critical wife.
  • John is often seen as henpecked in their relationship.
  • The henpecked husband seldom makes decisions without consulting his wife.

Translations

Translations of the word "henpecked" in other languages:

🇵🇹 submisso

🇮🇳 पतिव्रता

🇩🇪 unterdrückt

🇮🇩 dikuasai

🇺🇦 підконтрольний

🇵🇱 zniewolony

🇯🇵 妻に支配された

🇫🇷 dominé

🇪🇸 dominado

🇹🇷 baskı altında

🇰🇷 아내에게 눌린

🇸🇦 مسيطر عليه

🇨🇿 ovládaný

🇸🇰 ovládaný

🇨🇳 被压制的

🇸🇮 podrejen

🇮🇸 undirgefinn

🇰🇿 бақыланатын

🇬🇪 მონდომილი

🇦🇿 idarə olunan

🇲🇽 dominado

Word origin

The term 'henpecked' originates from the metaphorical use of hens and their behavior. Hens are known to aggressively dominate roosters in a farmyard setting, which alludes to a man being dominated by a woman. This expression dates back to at least the 17th century, with the use being recorded in various literary works. The idea reflected by this term suggests a comedic or light-hearted view of marital relationships, although it can also carry negative connotations regarding gender roles. Over time, 'henpecked' has become a common phrase in English-speaking cultures to describe men who acquiesce to the demands of their female partners in everyday life.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,433, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.