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Impaled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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impaled

[ɪmˈpeɪld ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

physical action

To impale means to pierce or transfix something with a sharp object, often resulting in injury or death. This term can be used literally, such as when a person is pierced by a spear, or metaphorically, referring to a situation that causes great emotional distress.

Synonyms

pierce, skewer, stab, transfix.

Examples of usage

  • The knight was impaled by the enemy's spear.
  • In the horror movie, the villain impaled his victim.
  • The stake was used to impale the vampire.
  • He felt impaled by the harsh criticism at work.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural References

  • Impaling has appeared in horror films and literature, often to invoke fear and highlight brutality.
  • In some cultures, it was used historically as a method of punishment, demonstrating power over enemies.
  • The practice is sometimes referenced in video games and fantasy narratives, symbolizing extreme danger or defeat.

Science

  • In biology, some animals can regenerate after being impaled if their injuries are not too severe.
  • Certain predatory species use a method of quickly stabbing prey, which is a biological form of impalement.
  • In medical emergencies, impalement can pose various risks including blood loss, infection, and trauma.

Psychology

  • The term can also metaphorically describe emotional distress or trauma, as if feeling stuck or pierced by harsh experiences.
  • In psychological discussions, being 'impaled' can refer to overwhelming stress and feeling trapped without escape.
  • The imagery of impalement may provide insight into deep-seated fears or anxieties within individuals.

Literature

  • Authors have used the concept of impalement to explore themes of vulnerability and existential dread.
  • In Shakespeare's works, themes related to violence and injury often hint at impalement as a dramatic device.
  • The imagery associated with impalement often evokes strong emotional responses from readers, emphasizing pain and sacrifice.

Origin of 'impaled'

Main points about word origin

  • The word derives from the Latin 'impalare,' where 'in-' means 'in' and 'palare' means 'to stake.'
  • Originally, in medieval contexts, 'impalement' referred to a method of execution that utilized sharp stakes.
  • It's used figuratively in literature to describe a feeling of being trapped or caught in an unbearable situation.

The word 'impale' has its origins in the Latin verb 'impalare', which means 'to fasten to a stake'. This Latin term is formed from 'in-', meaning into, and 'palum', meaning stake or pole. The use of impalement as a method of execution dates back to ancient cultures and has been documented in various historical texts. Impalement was not only a way to kill but also served as a method of torture and a means to impose terror on enemies. Over time, the word has evolved into modern usage, encompassing both the physical act and its metaphorical implications in literature and conversation.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,691, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.