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Muzzled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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muzzled

[ˈmʌzəld ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

animal restraint

Muzzled refers to the act of fitting a muzzle on an animal, typically a dog, to prevent it from biting or from eating unwanted things. This is a common practice for pet owners who want to keep their pets and others safe. Beyond its literal meaning, 'muzzled' can also describe a situation where someone is silenced or restricted in expressing their opinions or feelings. This metaphorical use extends its applicability beyond the physical constraints typically associated with animals.

Synonyms

choked, concealed, restrained, silenced.

Examples of usage

  • The dog was muzzled during the vet visit.
  • After the incident, the aggressive dog was permanently muzzled.
  • Critics claimed the government was muzzling the free press.
  • He felt muzzled in the conversation and couldn't share his thoughts.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Being 'muzzled' can create feelings of frustration and anxiety, as individuals struggle with not being able to express their thoughts.
  • Psychologists argue that withholding self-expression can lead to mental health issues, like depression, due to pent-up emotions.
  • Research highlights that people who feel 'muzzled' in their environments often experience a decrease in creativity and problem-solving abilities.

Literature

  • Authors often use the concept of being 'muzzled' to depict oppression or control in their characters, making it a common theme in dystopian fiction.
  • Famous works, like George Orwell's '1984', explore the dangers of silencing voices in society, representing the metaphorical 'muzzling' of truth.
  • Poets have utilized the term to symbolize the struggle for free speech, crafting powerful imagery around the idea of being silenced.

Media and Communication

  • In journalism, the term 'muzzled' can refer to situations where reporters are restricted from covering certain topics or expressing viewpoints.
  • Social media often highlights the notion of being 'muzzled' as people experience censorship or feel pressured to conform to prevailing opinions.
  • Campaigns advocating for freedom of speech frequently use 'muzzled' to emphasize the need to unrestrict voices in various platforms.

Animal Behavior

  • Muzzling a dog is a common practice in veterinary settings to prevent biting, especially when the animal is scared or in pain.
  • Behavioral trainers emphasize that using a muzzle should not be a punishment but a tool for safety, promoting better understanding of animal communication.
  • Muzzling is also a topic in animal rights discussions, focusing on the ethics of restricting speech and behavior not just in animals but metaphorically in humans.

Origin of 'muzzled'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the word 'muzzle', which originally referred to a device placed over an animal's mouth to prevent it from biting or eating.
  • The use of 'muzzle' as a verb to mean silencing someone dates back to the early 17th century.
  • In literature and everyday speech, 'muzzled' reflects a deeper metaphor of suppression beyond just animal control.

The word 'muzzle' originates from the Old French word 'musel', which means 'snout' or 'nose'. It made its way into Middle English in the 14th Century and was associated with the act of restraining an animal's mouth, thereby preventing it from biting or eating. The development of the term allowed for a broader metaphorical use, with 'muzzled' starting to describe not just physical restraint but also social or emotional suppression. Through the 19th and 20th centuries, its use expanded significantly in literature and journalism, particularly in contexts where freedom of expression was being limited. This duality of meaning illustrates the evolution of language and how terms can develop new connotations over time.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,007 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.