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Milksop Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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milksop

[ˈmɪlkˌsɒp ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

derogatory term

Milksop is a derogatory term used to describe a man or boy who is regarded as weak or ineffectual. The word often implies a lack of bravery or strength, suggesting that the individual is overly dependent or cowardly. Historically, it may have been used to describe someone who is soft or gentle in nature, especially in a context that prioritizes toughness or heroism. It can also refer to someone who is indecisive or cowardly, failing to take action when necessary.

Synonyms

coward, pansy, softie, weakling, wimp.

Examples of usage

  • Stop being such a milksop and stand up for yourself.
  • He was mocked by his peers for being a milksop during the camping trip.
  • In the film, the milksop hero must find his courage.
  • They called him a milksop for not wanting to join the fight.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In Shakespeare's works, the word is used to describe characters who lack the resolve to take action.
  • Charles Dickens also utilized the term to depict weak characters in social narratives, emphasizing moral failures.
  • Modern interpretations in literature often reflect societal views on masculinity and strength.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In contemporary culture, being labeled a 'milksop' highlights notions of masculinity and emotional vulnerability, sparking discussions about gender roles.
  • The term has evolved to include those who appear overly sensitive or easily offended in various social contexts.
  • It is often used in sports and competitive fields to criticize players or competitors perceived as lacking grit.

Psychology

  • Individuals identified with milksop behavior may struggle with self-esteem, leading to challenges in asserting their opinions.
  • In social psychology, the label can impact one's identity, influencing their interactions and responses to situational stress.
  • The term can be associated with learned helplessness, where individuals feel incapable of affecting their circumstances.

Pop Culture

  • Many television shows use the archetype of the milksop character to create comedic effects, highlighting their reluctance or fear.
  • Movies often portray milksops contrasting with more bold characters, effectively setting up character development arcs.
  • The term has been referenced in music and art, symbolizing cultural critiques of perceived weakness in modern society.

Origin of 'milksop'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the combination of 'milk', suggesting softness, and 'sop', a piece of bread soaked in liquid.
  • First used in the early 16th century, it originally referred to someone who was overly timid or malleable.
  • It was commonly used in literature to describe characters lacking strength or backbone.

The term 'milksop' originated from an English dialect phrase that literally referred to bread dipped in milk, which was sometimes given to infants or a very soft diet for the weak. By the 16th century, the term evolved to describe an effeminate or weak man, particularly one who lacked the toughness expected from men of that era. The metaphor behind the word suggested that just as milk is a gentle substance, so too is the character it is used to describe. Its usage has persisted over the centuries, often appearing in literature and colloquial speech as a way to insult someone's masculinity or strength. The biblical connotation of being 'taught to suckle' further emphasizes the inherent criticism embedded in the term, suggesting a regression to childlike dependency.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,247, 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.