Mangy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
mangy
[หmรฆลษกi ]
Definition
appearance, quality
The term 'mangy' is primarily used to describe something that appears shabby, dirty, or neglected. It often refers to animals, particularly dogs, that have a rough coat or are infested with parasites, making them look unkempt. In a broader context, it can apply to people, places, or objects that reflect a lack of care or attention. The word carries a negative connotation, suggesting that the subject is undesirable or unsightly.
Synonyms
ragged, shabby, tattered, unkempt.
Examples of usage
- The mangy dog wandered the streets, searching for food.
- Her clothes looked mangy after being left in the rain.
- The old furniture gave the room a mangy appearance.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Animal Welfare
- Animals with untreated skin conditions like mange suffer from discomfort, making them appear mangy.
- Many animal shelters focus on rescuing mangy pets to provide them with care and treatment, highlighting the importance of animal health.
- Seeing a mangy animal often sparks discussions about the need for compassion and welfare programs for pets.
Cultural References
- 'Mangy' has appeared in various works of literature and music, often symbolizing neglect or decay.
- The phrase 'mangy mutt' is commonly used in pop culture to describe a scruffy dog, emphasizing its shabby appearance.
- In films, characters who are described as mangy often reflect their rough backgrounds or difficult circumstances.
Psychology
- Perceptions of 'manginess' can influence empathy; individuals often feel sympathetic towards a mangy animal but indifferent towards inanimate objects in poor condition.
- Studies show that people associate appearance with worth; a mangy look can evoke feelings of neglect or abandonment in both animals and objects.
- The concept of 'manginess' may also reflect societal attitudes towards poverty, discomfort, and degradation.
Popular Sayings
- Expressions like 'a mangy dog' convey more than just appearance; they often imply a lack of care or respect.
- In various cultures, describing something as mangy can serve as a metaphor for situations lacking vitality or cleanliness.
- Seeing something in a state of disrepair evokes the saying 'you can't judge a book by its cover' when discussing deeper values and truths.
Origin of 'mangy'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'mangy' comes from the Middle French 'mangรฉ,' meaning 'eaten away' or 'damaged.'
- In the 15th century, it was used to describe animals with mange, a skin disease that leaves them looking ragged.
- The word has evolved to refer to anything that appears in bad shape or poorly maintained.
The word 'mangy' originates from the Middle English term 'mangy,' which is derived from the Old French 'mangier,' meaning 'to eat.' The connection to eating is thought to relate to the poor health and physical condition of animals infested with parasites, which often appear ragged and neglected. It has been in use since at least the 14th century, primarily to describe the condition of animals, particularly dogs, suffering from skin diseases. Over time, 'mangy' has evolved to broadly refer to anything that is in a state of disrepair or neglect, extending its use beyond just animals to encompass a variety of contexts including clothing, environments, and even behaviors.