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Milksop: meaning, definitions and examples

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milksop

 

[ ˈmɪlkˌsɒp ]

Noun
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

Translations of the word "milksop" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mole

🇮🇳 कमज़ोर आदमी

🇩🇪 Schwächling

🇮🇩 lemah

🇺🇦 слабак

🇵🇱 tchórz

🇯🇵 弱虫

🇫🇷 mou

🇪🇸 blandengue

🇹🇷 zayıf adam

🇰🇷 약한 남자

🇸🇦 رجل ضعيف

🇨🇿 slaboch

🇸🇰 slaboch

🇨🇳 弱者

🇸🇮 šibek

🇮🇸 veikur

🇰🇿 әлсіз адам

🇬🇪 სუსტი

🇦🇿 zayıf kişi

🇲🇽 débil

Etymology

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.