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Hounded: meaning, definitions and examples

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hounded

 

[ ˈhaʊndɪd ]

Verb
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

Translations of the word "hounded" in other languages:

🇵🇹 perseguido

🇮🇳 पीछा किया गया

🇩🇪 verfolgt

🇮🇩 dikejar

🇺🇦 переслідуваний

🇵🇱 prześladowany

🇯🇵 追い詰められた

🇫🇷 pourchassé

🇪🇸 acosado

🇹🇷 kovalan

🇰🇷 추적당한

🇸🇦 مُلاحَق

🇨🇿 pronásledovaný

🇸🇰 prenasledovaný

🇨🇳 被追赶的

🇸🇮 preganjan

🇮🇸 eltiður

🇰🇿 қудалаған

🇬🇪 დევნილი

🇦🇿 təqib olunan

🇲🇽 acosado

Word origin

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.