Manhandling: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term combines 'man', suggesting human involvement, and 'handling', which refers to the way we touch or manage things.
• It originated in the 19th century, reflecting a time when physical labor was highly valued and often forceful.
• The word was initially neutral but has gained a negative connotation due to its association with aggressive behavior.

Psychology

• In situations of conflict, manhandling can escalate tensions, as it is perceived as both dominant and threatening.
• Research in psychology suggests that aggressive physical behavior can lead to increased anxiety and fear in others.
• Understanding the dynamics of power can reveal how manhandling is sometimes seen as a way to exert control in stressful situations.

Law

• In legal contexts, manhandling can be classified as excessive force, potentially leading to charges of assault or battery.
• Understanding the line between acceptable force and manhandling is crucial for law enforcement to maintain public trust.
• Victims of manhandling may have legal recourse if the act was unwarranted or abusive, emphasizing the need for proper conduct.

Pop Culture

• Manhandling has appeared in various films and shows as a trope often depicting a villain conflict where brute strength is showcased.
• Wrestling and action movies frequently feature manhandling as a key element in fight scenes to highlight physical prowess.
• Social media memes often parody manhandling to humorously depict situations where someone uses excessive force in everyday tasks.

Safety and Ethics

• In workplaces, using proper lifting techniques is encouraged to avoid manhandling, which can lead to accidents and injuries.
• Training in conflict resolution promotes alternative approaches to physical force, reducing the likelihood of manhandling.
• Ethical considerations emphasize the importance of consent and respect in any interaction where one party may physically handle another.

Ranking #37,592, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

• ...
• 37589 standoffish
• 37590 misplacing
• 37591 pippin
• 37592 manhandling
• 37593 torpedoing
• 37594 scrambler
• 37595 chaffinch
• ...