Limbo Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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limbo
[ˈlɪmbəʊ ]
Definitions
dance
A dance where participants must bend backwards and pass under a horizontal bar without touching it.
Synonyms
limbo dance.
Examples of usage
- They played limbo at the beach party.
- Let's see how low you can go in the limbo dance.
religion
The supposed abode of the souls of unbaptized infants, and of the just who died before Christ's coming.
Examples of usage
- According to some beliefs, limbo is a place where unbaptized souls reside.
uncertainty
An uncertain period of awaiting a decision or resolution.
Synonyms
in-between, limbo state.
Examples of usage
- The project was in limbo until the funding was secured.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cultural References
- The song 'Limbo Rock' popularized the dance game in the 1960s, showing both fun and flexibility in its rhythm.
- Many Caribbean cultures celebrate limbo dancing during festivals, emphasizing rhythm, skill, and community.
Literature
- The concept of limbo often appears in literature as a metaphor for confusion or in-between states, like in Dante's 'Inferno', where it describes souls stuck without hope.
- Modern literature uses 'limbo' to explore feelings of uncertainty in characters, showing their struggles with choices.
Psychology
- In psychology, limbo can describe the state of 'decision fatigue,' where someone feels stuck between choices and finds it hard to move forward.
- Feeling in limbo about a relationship or job often leads to anxiety, as one is caught between past attachments and future possibilities.
Games and Activities
- Limbo as a game encourages flexibility, teamwork, and coordination, making it popular for parties and physical education.
- In sports, the term 'limbo' can describe the moment when a player finds themselves unsure of their next move, much like in everyday life.
Origin of 'limbo'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'limbo' comes from the Latin 'limbus,' meaning 'border' or 'edge,' which reflects its meaning of being on the edge of two states.
- In medieval times, 'limbo' referred to the outer edges of hell where unbaptized souls waited, highlighting its religious roots.
The word 'limbo' originated in the late 14th century from the Latin word 'limbus', meaning 'edge' or 'boundary'. Originally used in reference to a dance where participants passed under a horizontal bar, the term later expanded to include religious and metaphorical meanings. In Roman Catholic theology, limbo refers to a hypothetical space where unbaptized souls reside. Over time, the term has also been used to describe a state of uncertainty or waiting. The dance limbo remains a popular party game, symbolizing flexibility and agility.