Pelted Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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pelted
[ˈpɛltɪd ]
Definition
threw rapidly
Pelted is the past tense of the verb 'pelt', which means to strike or throw something at someone or something with force or intensity. This action is often associated with throwing small objects, like stones or snowballs. Pelted can also describe being bombarded with something, like rain or criticism. The term conveys a sense of speed and aggression in the act of throwing.
Synonyms
assailed, battered, bombarded, hounded.
Examples of usage
- The children pelted each other with snowballs.
- We were pelted by heavy rain during the storm.
- Critics pelted him with harsh reviews after the performance.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Weather Phenomena
- In meteorology, 'pelted rain' describes heavy rain that falls in such a way that it feels like being hit.
- During a storm, people often say they were pelted with hail when small ice pellets come down rapidly.
Sports
- In baseball, a ball can be pelted across the field by a strong throw, showcasing the player's strength.
- Certain sports involve players pelting balls, like in dodgeball, where the goal is to hit opponents.
Pop Culture
- The word is frequently used in songs and movies to describe an intense, high-energy scene, such as someone being repeatedly hit with something humorous.
- In cartoons, characters often pelt each other with snowballs or fruit, creating slapstick comedy.
Literature
- Authors use 'pelted' evocatively to describe rapid movements or violent weather, bringing vivid imagery to their writing.
- In poetry, 'pelted' can describe the intensity of emotions, much like how raindrops convey feelings of sadness or joy.
Origin of 'pelted'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old English 'piltan,' meaning to throw or strike.
- Originally, it referred to the act of beating or striking repeatedly.
The word 'pelted' originates from the Middle English word 'pelten', which is derived from the Old English 'pyltan', meaning to strike or hurl. The use of 'pelt' in its current context has been around since the early 15th century, typically signifying the action of throwing something quickly and with force. Its evolution is closely related to the concept of projectiles and the physical act of impacting a target with speed. As language evolved, so did the applications of 'pelt', extending beyond physical objects to encompass metaphorical meanings, such as being attacked by words or criticisms.