Obloquy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Literature

• Authors like Shakespeare included themes of obloquy in their works, showcasing societal scorn among characters.
• In John Milton's 'Paradise Lost', themes of public shaming and obloquy serve to highlight moral failings.
• Famous literary figures have faced obloquy for their controversial opinions, illustrating the clash between creativity and public perception.

Culture

• In modern media, public figures frequently face obloquy when they make unpopular statements or decisions.
• Social media has amplified the effects of obloquy, allowing negative comments to spread rapidly.
• Public shaming events, like viral cancellations, can lead to widespread obloquy affecting an individual’s personal and professional life.

Psychology

• Experiences of obloquy can lead to anxiety or depression in those targeted, highlighting the emotional toll of criticism.
• People tend to form groups around shared opinions, often intensifying feelings of obloquy towards those deemed outsiders.
• The bystander effect can play a role in instances of obloquy, where witnesses may choose inaction rather than defend the criticized individual.

History

• Throughout history, famous figures like Joan of Arc faced obloquy that painted them as villains before being recognized as heroes.
• Political figures often wield obloquy as a tool in campaigns to discredit opponents and manipulate public opinion.
• Cultural revolutions have often faced obloquy from traditionalists, showcasing resistance to change.

Main points about word origin

• The word comes from the Latin 'obloquium', meaning 'talking against' or 'speaking ill of someone'.
• It combines 'ob-' (against) and 'loqui' (to speak), revealing its roots in speaking negatively.
• It has been used in English since the 16th century to convey strong public disapproval.

The word 'obloquy' originates from the Latin term 'obloquium,' which means 'speaking against' or 'rebuke.' This Latin root combines 'ob,' meaning 'against,' and 'loquium,' which comes from 'loqui,' meaning 'to speak.' Introduced into English in the 15th century, the term retained its negative connotations associated with public verbal attacks and criticism. Over the years, 'obloquy' has come to represent not just the act of criticism but also the fallout that arises when one becomes the subject of harsh public judgment. It reflects societal attitudes toward reputation and the consequences of public opinion, often serving as a cautionary term in discussions about freedom of speech and its implications.

At rank #27,404, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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• 27401 unapproachable
• 27402 premiered
• 27403 phobic
• 27404 obloquy
• 27405 debauched
• 27406 surrealist
• 27407 commingling
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