Kibosh: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'kibosh' may have originated from the Yiddish word 'kibosh', which means to bring an end to something.
• There's a theory that it comes from a Hebrew expression 'kiboshes', meaning to impose or to put an end.
• Some believe it might be linked to the English expression 'kiboshing the plans' which conveys the same sense of stopping.

Cultural Usage

• 'Kibosh' often appears in media and music, symbolizing the act of halting something—used in titles and lyrics.
• Popular phrases include 'put the kibosh on it', highlighting its commonality in everyday speech.
• Writers have used 'kibosh' to introduce tension by illustrating a sudden stop or change in direction in stories.

Pop Culture

• In modern shows and movies, characters sometimes use 'kibosh' to humorously express frustration at plans going awry.
• 'Kibosh' has appeared in various songs, often representing a relationship’s abrupt end or a failed attempt at something.
• The word has made its way into slang, especially among younger crowds, indicating anything from stopping an activity to canceling plans.

Psychology

• The act of putting the 'kibosh' on something can relate to cognitive dissonance, where individuals change their plans due to conflicting beliefs.
• Stopping certain behaviors or thoughts can lead to a sense of relief, as seen when people kibosh negative habits.
• Understanding the context of 'kibosh' can highlight how language reflects our emotional responses to change or disruption.

Literature

• Writers often use the term 'kibosh' to create dramatic tension, signaling a turn in the plot where actions are thwarted.
• Books and plays feature characters who face the 'kibosh', emphasizing moments of conflict and resolution.
• The playful use of 'kibosh' adds a layer of humor or sarcasm when describing misadventures or failed plans.

At position #40,785, 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.

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