Hotfooted Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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hotfooted
[ˈhɒtˌfʊtɪd ]
Definition
moving quickly
Hotfooted refers to the act of running away or moving swiftly, especially in a hurried or hurriedly manner. It often implies urgency, suggesting that the subject is trying to escape danger or reach a destination quickly. The term is colloquial, primarily used in informal conversations and expressions. This word can indicate a sense of excitement or panic, depending on the context in which it is used.
Synonyms
bolt, dash, hurry, rush, sprint.
Examples of usage
- He hotfooted it out of the meeting once he heard the news.
- When the storm hit, everyone hotfooted to their cars.
- She hotfooted across the field to catch the bus.
- After hearing the alarm, they hotfooted out of the building.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- Used in various films and books, characters often 'hotfoot' it out of trouble, emphasizing urgency and humor.
- A famous example can be found in cartoons where characters sprint away with exaggerated speed and comedic flair, showcasing the term's fun side.
Psychology
- The impulse to 'hotfoot' it can relate to the body's fight-or-flight response, which triggers when facing danger or stress.
- Running fast from fear is deeply rooted in our instincts, making this term a reflection of our human nature.
Literature
- Hotfooted characters often symbolically represent escape from societal norms or responsibilities, a theme prevalent in various literary works.
- In adventurous genres, characters who 'hotfoot' are often depicted as heroes fleeing from peril or seeking freedom.
History
- The rapid movement described by 'hotfooted' was historically vital for survival, whether in battle or when fleeing predators.
- In wartime, tales of soldiers hotfooting it away from danger became folklore, inspiring many survival stories.
Origin of 'hotfooted'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'hotfooted' combines 'hot' and 'foot,' suggesting quick movements, especially when someone's feet are eager to run.
- It originated in the early 19th century, possibly linked to the idea of burning feet from running fast.
The term 'hotfooted' has its origins in the early 20th century and likely combines the concepts of 'hot' and 'footed'. The word 'hot' in this context suggests urgency and speed, akin to the sensation of having hot feet while running. Over time, 'hotfooted' has found its way into informal English, used mostly in American English as a vivid way to describe rapid movement. Its usage can be traced back to literature and colloquial speech, where it conveys both the physical act of hurried movement and the emotional states associated with it, such as excitement or fear. This term encapsulates a moment of sudden action, often necessitated by unforeseen circumstances, making it a colorful addition to the English vernacular.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #42,435, 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.