Mutiny Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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mutiny
[ˈmjuːtɪni ]
Definitions
on a ship
A mutiny is a rebellion against authority, especially by sailors or soldiers against their officers. Mutinies often involve a group of people taking control of a ship or military unit by force.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| mutiny |
Usually occurs in a military or naval setting where the crew or soldiers collectively refuse to follow orders from their superior officers. Has a negative connotation.
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| rebellion |
Involves a broader and usually organized resistance against an established authority, government, or ruler. Can be seen in social, political, or cultural contexts.
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| revolt |
Typically indicates a violent uprising against an authority or government. It tends to be more spontaneous and less organized compared to a rebellion.
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| uprising |
Describes a mass movement usually focused on achieving a political goal. It can be both violent and non-violent.
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Examples of usage
- The captain managed to prevent the mutiny by addressing the sailors' concerns.
- The mutiny on the HMS Bounty is a famous historical event.
on a ship
To mutiny means to rebel against the established authority, typically by sailors or soldiers against their superiors. Mutinying often involves a group of individuals refusing to obey orders or attempting to take control through force.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| mutiny |
Typically used to describe an uprising or rebellion against authority, especially within a military or on a ship.
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| rebel |
Used for individuals or groups resisting authority or control. Can be applied in a military, political, or social context.
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| revolt |
Refers to a more widespread and aggressive form of rebellion against authority, often involving violence. Can denote a group or mass movement.
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| rise up |
A more general and often call-to-action term for standing against oppression or authority. Often used in a figurative or motivational sense.
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Examples of usage
- The crew decided to mutiny after enduring harsh treatment from the captain.
- The soldiers mutinied against their officers due to lack of provisions.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word 'mutiny' comes from the Latin word 'mutinare', meaning to change, reflecting the change in loyalty.
- Famous mutinies include the 1789 Bounty mutiny where sailors revolted against Captain Bligh in the South Pacific.
- Historically, many naval and military mutinies were responses to harsh conditions, emphasizing the importance of leadership.
Literature
- Mutiny is a central theme in several literary works, showcasing moral dilemmas and the struggle for power.
- In Shakespeare's 'Julius Caesar', characters plot against a leader, illustrating the conflict that often fuels mutiny.
- Herman Melville’s 'Billy Budd' explores the tragic consequences of mutiny aboard a ship, blending law and humanity.
Pop Culture
- Mutiny is often depicted in films and books, such as 'Pirates of the Caribbean', where crew members might revolt against a captain.
- Video games like 'Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag' allow players to engage in pirate mutinies, blending history and entertainment.
- Television series such as 'Galactica' feature stories around mutinies, highlighting themes of leadership and rebellion.
Psychology
- Mutinies can be viewed through the lens of group dynamics, as collective dissatisfaction often triggers collective action.
- The psychology of mutiny involves concepts like social identity, where individuals identify more with their peers than their leaders.
- Stress and perceived unfair treatment can lead to a breakdown in authority, causing groups to unite against leadership.
Modern Context
- In recent times, mutinies can occur in various organizations, not just military, as workers push back against unfair treatment.
- Social movements can be seen as a form of mutiny against established norms, promoting changes in leadership or policies.
- Global historical episodes, like the Arab Spring, reflect mass mutiny against oppressive regimes, showing the impact of collective dissent.
Origin of 'mutiny'
The word 'mutiny' originated from the French term 'meutiner', which means 'to revolt'. The concept of mutiny has been present throughout history, particularly in naval and military settings where groups of individuals rebel against their leaders. Mutinies have often been sparked by grievances such as harsh treatment, poor conditions, or lack of provisions.