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Hounded Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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hounded

[หˆhaสŠndษชd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

persistent pursuit

To be hounded means to be pursued or harassed relentlessly. This term often implies a continuous effort to chase someone in a way that is overwhelming or oppressive. It can also refer to an individual who is troubled by constant requests or pressure from others. The stress associated with being hounded can lead to anxiety or a sense of helplessness, as the person feels unable to escape from the scrutiny or demands placed upon them.

Synonyms

harassed, pursued, tormented, tracked.

Examples of usage

  • She was hounded by reporters after the incident.
  • He felt hounded by his responsibilities at work.
  • The activists hounded the politician for answers.
  • Dogs hounded the escaped convict until he was caught.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • In literature, characters often feel 'hounded' by their past choices or haunting memories, creating dramatic tension.
  • In movies, the term is commonly used to express how protagonists are relentlessly pursued by antagonists, emphasizing conflict.
  • Songs often use the idea of being hounded to illustrate themes of love or obsession, capturing deep emotional experiences.

Psychology

  • Being hounded can lead to increased stress and anxiety, reflecting the negative impact of constant pressure.
  • Victims of harassment might say they feel hounded, which highlights their psychological distress in the situation.
  • The term can also relate to feelings of guilt or remorse when someone feels dogged by their own conscience.

Literature

  • Classic novels often depict characters hounded by societal expectations, exploring themes of individuality versus conformity.
  • The notion of being hounded is a common motif in fables, where characters face relentless challenges or adversaries.
  • Modern poetry sometimes uses the term to convey the relentless pursuit of dreams or goals, underscoring the struggle involved.

History

  • Historically, people accused of crimes would be hounded by law enforcement, illustrating the tension between freedom and justice.
  • The term has also been used in political contexts, describing how individuals are pursued by media or public scrutiny.
  • Hounded individuals, especially in scandalous situations, have often had their stories told to uncover truth or critique society.

Origin of 'hounded'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'hound' comes from the Old English word 'hund', meaning dog, showing a historic link to being pursued.
  • Originally, 'hounded' referred specifically to being chased by dogs, often in a hunting context.
  • The transformation to its figurative usage occurred in the 19th century, expanding its meaning beyond just physical pursuit.

The word 'hounded' derives from the Old English 'hund', which means 'hound' or 'dog'. The term encapsulates the notion of dogs pursuing prey, reflecting the relentless nature of such pursuit. Historically, hunting with hounds was a popular activity, and this metaphorical use of dogs chasing their target has influenced the language. Over time, 'hounded' evolved to encompass not just literal chasing by dogs but also metaphorical pursuits by people or situations. It indicates a form of aggressive or constant pressure, paralleling the persistence of a hound in its chase. The verb form became more prominent in the 19th century, often used in contexts of media scrutiny or social pressures that can feel like one is being doggedly followed. Today, the term evokes a vivid image of relentless pursuit.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,646, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.