Loser Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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loser
[ˈluːzər ]
Definitions
person
A person who is defeated or fails frequently in a particular activity.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| loser |
Someone who habitually fails or lacks success, often perceived negatively. Commonly used in informal or colloquial speech, sometimes to insult or criticize.
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| failure |
A person or thing that does not succeed. May be used in professional or personal contexts and has a somewhat negative connotation.
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| defeatist |
Someone who expects or accepts failure easily, often having a pessimistic attitude. Typically used in more formal speech or writing.
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| underdog |
Someone who is expected to lose or has a disadvantage in a competition or struggle. Often used sympathetically to describe someone who fights against the odds.
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Examples of usage
- He was labeled as a loser after losing the championship match.
- She felt like a loser when she failed the exam.
insult
A person who is generally unsuccessful or unpopular.
Synonyms
outcast, unpopular, unsuccessful.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| loser |
This term is often used in a derogatory way to describe someone who is frequently failing or perceived as not successful by societal standards.
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| unsuccessful |
This word is used to describe someone or something that has not achieved desired results or goals. It is a neutral term compared to 'loser'.
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| unpopular |
This term refers to someone who lacks popularity or widespread approval, often among peers or within a specific group.
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| outcast |
This word is usually used to describe someone who has been rejected or excluded from a social group or community. It often implies a sense of alienation.
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Examples of usage
- Don't listen to him, he's just calling you a loser because he's jealous.
- She called him a loser for not being able to find a job.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- In the 2000 film 'Loser,' the protagonist is a college student who struggles to fit in, turning the term into a relatable character archetype.
- The word gained popularity in social commentary and memes, often used humorously to define characters in comical failures.
- The phrase 'loser' became a significant part of high school dynamics, often used in bullying, which affects social interactions and self-esteem.
Psychology
- Being labeled a 'loser' can impact self-esteem, leading to feelings of worthlessness or depression in some individuals.
- Psychologically, the term reflects societal pressures and the human tendency to compare oneself with others, often creating an unfair self-assessment.
- Resilience studies suggest that the experience of being labeled can motivate individuals to strive harder, challenging the negative connotation.
Sociology
- The concept of being a 'loser' is often tied to social hierarchies, influencing how groups define success and failure.
- In various cultures, definitions of what constitutes a 'loser' can vary widely, illustrating diverse social expectations.
- The term may reflect deeper societal issues, such as economic disparity, where some individuals are unfairly judged based on circumstances beyond their control.
Literature
- In literary works, protagonists often face trials that label them as 'losers' before overcoming adversity, showcasing growth and resilience.
- Classic literature portrays characters labeled as 'losers' to critique societal norms and highlight the journey towards self-acceptance.
- Many contemporary novels explore themes of identity and transformation, challenging the stigma associated with being seen as a 'loser.'
Origin of 'loser'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Middle English term 'loser,' which meant 'to fail' or 'to be defeated.'
- It is derived from the Old French 'loser,' which also means 'to lose' or 'be defeated,' highlighting the term's long historical roots.
- The use of 'loser' in sports slang began in the 19th century, emphasizing its connection to competition.
The term 'loser' originated in the mid-16th century as a derogatory term for a person who loses or is defeated. Over time, it has evolved to not only describe someone who is unsuccessful in a particular activity but also as an insult for someone who is generally unsuccessful or unpopular.