Kibosh Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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kibosh
[ˈkaɪbɒʃ ]
Definition
terminating influence
The term 'kibosh' refers to a hindrance or a stoppage, often used to indicate that something is being put to an end or is being suppressed. It is typically used in informal settings to describe the act of putting an end to plans, ideas, or activities. The term conveys a sense of curbing enthusiasm or preventing something from occurring. Its usage implies a decisive or authoritative action to prevent further progress.
Synonyms
cancellation, halt, suspension, termination.
Examples of usage
- The manager put the kibosh on the new project.
- After hearing the objections, she decided to put the kibosh on the party plans.
- His proposal was quickly met with kibosh by the board.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
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.
Origin of 'kibosh'
Main points about word origin
- 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.
The origin of the word 'kibosh' is somewhat uncertain, but it is believed to have emerged in the early 19th century. Some etymologists suggest it may derive from the Yiddish word 'kibosh', meaning 'to put a stop to' or 'to repress.' Alternatively, others speculate that the term could have connections to the Irish language, particularly the word 'cabbage,' leading to theories of it signifying 'putting a lid' on something. The usage of 'kibosh' gained traction particularly within British English during the Victorian era, and over time, it has evolved into colloquial expressions in both British and American English, often employed in informal conversations to describe the act of thwarting plans or ideas.
Word Frequency Rank
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.