Homesick Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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homesick
[ˈhoʊmˌsɪk ]
Definition
feeling longing
Homesick refers to the emotional state of missing one's home or the comforts and familiarity associated with it. This feeling often arises when someone is away from home for an extended period and can evoke strong nostalgic emotions.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She felt homesick after moving to a new city.
- He called his family because he was feeling homesick.
- The students became homesick during their first year at college.
- During the holidays, many expatriates experience homesickness.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Research shows that feeling homesick is a natural emotional response, reflecting a person's attachment to their home environment.
- Studies suggest that homesickness can trigger feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and nostalgia as a way of coping with the stress of change.
Cultural Perspectives
- In many cultures, the concept of home is more than just a physical place; it represents safety, comfort, and belonging.
- Different cultures have unique ritualistic practices to help individuals cope with homesickness when they are away, such as connecting through phone calls or community gatherings.
Literature
- The theme of longing for home is prevalent in classic literature, like Odysseus' journey in Homer's 'The Odyssey', where he yearns to return to Ithaca.
- Many authors use the feeling of homesickness to depict characters' emotional struggles, enriching the narrative through their longing for familiarity.
Travel
- Travelers often experience homesickness when they are away for an extended period, especially in new or unfamiliar places.
- Famous explorers like Marco Polo documented feelings of homesickness during their adventures, emphasizing how even the most daring can miss home.
History
- The term 'homesick' was used as far back as the 17th century, highlighting that this feeling has been part of human experience for centuries.
- During the World Wars, soldiers often reported intense homesickness, leading to discussions about mental health and support for military personnel.
Origin of 'homesick'
The word 'homesick' traces its origins to the early 19th century and combines two distinct notions: 'home' and 'sick.' The term reflects not a physical sickness but an emotional state, implying a longing or yearning for one's place of origin or comfort. The prefix 'home' denotes the physical space where one feels secure, while 'sick' suggests a feeling of distress or discomfort. This emotional concept became increasingly recognized in literature and psychology, particularly in discussions about migration, exile, and the experience of those far from their familiar surroundings. As societies became more mobile and globalized, the term gained relevance across various cultures, encapsulating the universal sentiment of missing the warmth and familiarity of home.