Noose Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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noose
[nuːs ]
Definitions
Context #1 | Noun
around neck
A noose is a loop at the end of a rope in which the knot tightens as the rope is pulled and is typically used to hang someone.
Examples of usage
- The outlaw was captured and a noose was placed around his neck.
- The noose tightened as the executioner pulled the lever.
Context #2 | Noun
trap
A noose can also refer to a loop made in a rope with a slipknot, used to snare animals or hangman's knot to execute people.
Examples of usage
- The hunter set up a noose to catch wild rabbits.
- The criminal was sentenced to death by hanging with a noose.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
History
- In medieval times, nooses were commonly used in hunting to capture animals.
- The noose is also historically associated with capital punishment, symbolizing execution by hanging.
- During the 19th century, the term became prevalent in discussions about lynching in America, which highlights dark aspects of societal history.
Literature
- Nooses appear frequently in literature as metaphors for fate, entrapment, or impending doom.
- Famous works, such as Edgar Allan Poe's 'The Tell-Tale Heart,' invoke imagery of nooses to convey tension and anxiety.
- Characters in various novels often use nooses to signify despair or loss of control, elevating its dramatic impact.
Pop Culture
- Nooses have been featured in various films and TV shows, often symbolizing danger or intense suspense.
- In modern contexts, a noose has been adopted as a symbol in social movements, representing discussions about mental health and suicide awareness.
- The imagery of a noose often appears in music lyrics and artwork to reflect struggles with personal issues.
Psychology
- The noose, as a symbol, can trigger feelings of anxiety or fear associated with life-threatening situations.
- In therapeutic settings, discussing the symbolism of a noose can help individuals confront deeper emotional issues.
- Understanding why certain symbols evoke strong emotional responses can aid in comprehending societal attitudes toward mental health.
Origin of 'noose'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'noose' comes from the Old English 'hnosa,' which means 'to snare or catch.'
- Its usage has been recorded in English texts as far back as the 13th century.
- Over time, this term evolved with various meanings, including those relating to fishing and handling ropes.
The word 'noose' originated from the Middle English word 'nous', which is derived from the Old French word 'nues', meaning 'knot'. The use of nooses in executions dates back to ancient times, with various civilizations using this method for capital punishment. Nooses have also been used historically in hunting traps to catch animals.