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Mauling: meaning, definitions and examples

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mauling

 

[ mɔː.lΙͺΕ‹ ]

Verb / Noun
Context #1 | Verb

animal attack

To maul means to injure someone or something by scratching and tearing. This term is commonly associated with animal attacks where wild animals, such as dogs or bears, inflict serious injuries. Mauling can result in severe wounds and is often described as a violent assault. The act can vary in severity, from minor injuries to fatal consequences.

Synonyms

assault, attack, chew, devour, mangle

Examples of usage

  • The bear mauled the camper while he was sleeping.
  • The dog was trained not to maul any intruders.
  • She received multiple stitches after being mauled by the tiger.
  • A lion mauled a wildlife photographer during a safari.
Context #2 | Noun

violent attack

A mauling refers to a violent and serious injurious encounter, typically involving an animal attacking a person. The implications of a mauling can be serious, often leading to hospitalization or long-term trauma for the victim. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe a severe criticism or a harsh encounter in a competitive context.

Synonyms

assault, assaulting, attack, battering

Examples of usage

  • The mauling left the hiker in critical condition.
  • Witnesses reported a terrifying mauling at the zoo.
  • He was a victim of a brutal mauling by a stray dog.

Word origin

The word 'maul' originates from the Middle English term 'maulen' or 'mallen', which means 'to handle roughly' or 'to beat'. This term is derived from the Old French word 'maloir', which refers to 'a hammer' or 'to crush'. The etymology of the word has roots in the Proto-Germanic '*malwō', signifying a similar action of striking or hitting. 'Maul' has been in use since the early 15th century to describe not just animal attacks but also rough or violent handling in various contexts. Over time, the term has evolved while retaining its core meaning associated with harshness, injury, and violence.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,000, 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.