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Mauled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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mauled

[mɔːld ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

physical attack

The term 'mauled' refers to a brutal or savage attack, often associated with an animal attacking its prey. It can also be used to describe a situation where someone is seriously injured or harmed due to a violent incident. This term evokes imagery of severe injuries and chaos, indicating a lack of restraint during the attack. In literature and media, 'mauled' is often used to create dramatic effects when depicting violence.

Synonyms

attacked, butchered, ravaged, torn apart.

Examples of usage

  • The lion mauled its prey.
  • The dog was mauled by a group of wild animals.
  • He was mauled in the alley by a gang.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Animal Behavior

  • Many animals, such as lions and bears, use their claws and teeth effectively during fights, often causing serious injuries.
  • In the wild, a 'mauled' animal may struggle for survival, showcasing the harshness of nature and predator-prey dynamics.

Literature

  • In classic literature, mauling often symbolizes betrayal or danger, such as in tales where a hero faces a fierce beast.
  • Shakespeare portrayed mauling in 'Hamlet', where the metaphor of being ripped apart reflects emotional pain.

Pop Culture

  • Horror films often depict characters being mauled by monsters or animals, heightening suspense and fear.
  • There are numerous cartoons where characters get mauled in funny ways, emphasizing exaggeration over reality.

Psychology

  • The concept of being mauled can symbolize emotional trauma, where individuals feel attacked or hurt by others' actions.
  • In therapy, discussing feelings of being 'mauled' can help individuals process their experiences of betrayal or emotional harm.

Origin of 'mauled'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'mauled' comes from the Old French word 'moler,' which means to grind or crush.
  • In Latin, the word 'mola' refers to a millstone, which is heavy and can crush things, linking to the idea of being hurt badly.

The word 'mauled' originates from the Old French word 'mauler', which means to handle clumsily or to injure. The roots can be traced back to the late 14th century, reflecting the violent nature associated with the term. As the language evolved, 'mauled' has been used predominantly in contexts relating to animal attacks, depicting brutal interactions between animals, or between humans and animals. Over time, it has also found its place in metaphorical language, often representing intense conflicts or brutal confrontations among people. In literature, 'mauled' often conveys a strong visual cue of destruction and violence, reinforcing the emotional impact of the narrative.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,071 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.