Hoarding Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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hoarding
[ˈhɔːrdɪŋ ]
Definitions
mental health
The compulsive accumulation and storage of things that are often not needed or have little value.
Synonyms
accumulating, collecting, stockpiling.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hoarding |
This term is a repetition and has the same context and examples as the first instance.
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| stockpiling |
This word is typically used when someone is gathering a large quantity of something, usually in preparation for a shortage or emergency. It can have a neutral to negative connotation, depending on the context.
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| collecting |
This word is used when someone is gathering items, often as a hobby or for a specific purpose. It generally has a positive or neutral connotation.
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| accumulating |
Use this word when talking about gradually gathering a quantity of something over time. It can be used in both a positive and neutral context.
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Examples of usage
- Her hoarding of old newspapers had created a fire hazard in her home.
- His hoarding of useless items was a symptom of his underlying anxiety disorder.
general
The act of amassing and holding on to large quantities of items or possessions.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hoarding |
Used when referring to the act of collecting large quantities of items, often perceived negatively as it implies excessive or unnecessary accumulation.
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| hoard |
Refers to a large amount of something that someone has saved or hidden. It can sometimes imply secrecy or greed.
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| stash |
Describes a secret or private collection of items, often implying that these items are valuable or being kept hidden for personal use.
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| pile |
Represents a group of things placed one on top of another, often implying disorganization or a lack of storage.
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Examples of usage
- The hoarding of resources during times of scarcity can lead to shortages for others.
- His hoarding of money prevented him from enjoying life to the fullest.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Hoarding can be linked to anxiety, where people feel safer keeping items rather than letting them go.
- Studies show that individuals who hoard often struggle with decision-making about what to keep or throw away.
- Not everyone who collects is a hoarder, as hoarding is characterized by significant distress and impairment in daily life.
Cultural Perspectives
- In some cultures, keeping many items is seen as wise and a way to preserve heritage, while in others, it may be viewed as wasteful.
- Television shows about hoarding have raised awareness about the condition, fostering empathy and understanding of its challenges.
- The minimalist movement, advocating for owning fewer items, directly contrasts with the hoarding tendency.
Historical Context
- Hoarding behaviors have been observed throughout history, often during times of scarcity, like the Great Depression.
- In ancient societies, those who hoarded grains during bad harvests risked being shunned or punished for not contributing to the community.
- Modern psychology began formally recognizing hoarding as a mental health disorder in the 1990s, altering perceptions and treatment approaches.
Social Implications
- Hoarding can impact relationships, leading to conflicts with family and friends who may feel overwhelmed by the clutter.
- Communities often organize clean-up efforts for hoarding situations, highlighting the collective responsibility to care for neighbors.
- There's a stigma attached to hoarding, making it hard for individuals to seek help due to fear of judgment.
Literature
- Several works of fiction explore themes of hoarding, often using it as a metaphor for deeper emotional issues or societal critiques.
- Classic novels sometimes portray characters who hoard as eccentric or villainous, reflecting society’s distrust of excessive accumulation.
- Hoarding has also emerged as a topic in poetry, often symbolizing the struggle with materialism and the human condition.
Origin of 'hoarding'
The word 'hoarding' originated from the Middle English word 'hordung', which meant 'a treasure, valuable stock or store'. The concept of hoarding has been observed throughout history, often associated with periods of scarcity or economic downturns. In modern times, hoarding is also recognized as a mental health disorder, with individuals experiencing difficulties discarding possessions due to perceived need or sentimental attachment.
See also: hoarder.