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Menace Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ‘น
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menace

[หˆmenษชs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

insecurity

A person or thing that is likely to cause harm; a threat or danger.

Synonyms

danger, peril, threat.

Examples of usage

  • The new virus strain is a menace to public health.
  • The presence of armed men was a constant menace to the villagers.
Context #2 | Verb

intimidation

To threaten or intimidate someone, especially in a malignant or hostile manner.

Synonyms

bully, intimidate, threaten.

Examples of usage

  • The gangsters menaced the shopkeeper into paying protection money.
  • The dark figure lurking in the shadows menaced her with his sharp knife.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • In movies, the character of the 'menacing villain' is a staple, often portrayed to create suspense and fear.
  • Iconic films like 'Jaws' and 'Jurassic Park' use elements of menace to build tension and excitement.
  • Comics often have menacing characters as enemies, depicting the battle between good and evil.

Psychology

  • The perception of menace can trigger a flight or fight response in individuals, highlighting its impact on behavior.
  • Children often construct understanding of danger through stories, where menacing characters help them identify risks.
  • In social interactions, individuals may exhibit menacing behaviors unconsciously, impacting relationships and environments.

Literature

  • Classic literature often uses the menacing figure to symbolize deeper societal problems, like in Mary Shelleyโ€™s 'Frankenstein'.
  • Shakespeareโ€™s plays frequently feature menacing characters, accentuating themes of jealousy, power, and betrayal.
  • Menace can serve as a literary device to enhance the narrative and develop plot tension.

History

  • Throughout history, acts of war and terrorism have been labeled as menaces, shaping international relations.
  • The term is often used in the context of public safety, emphasizing the importance of law enforcement in response to threats.
  • Historical leaders who were seen as menaces often faced rebellions, highlighting the impact of fear in governance.

Origin of 'menace'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'menace' comes from the Latin term 'minacia', meaning 'threatening'.
  • It was adopted into Middle English in the late 14th century, originally referring to threats.
  • The evolution of its usage shows a shift from general threat to specific dangerous individuals or actions.

The word 'menace' originated from the Old French word 'menace' in the late 14th century, meaning 'a threat or a warning'. It has roots in the Latin word 'minacia', which also means 'a threat'. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass both a person or thing that poses a threat as well as the act of threatening or intimidating others.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,396 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.