Periling - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

danger context

To peril means to put at risk or to expose to danger. It implies creating a situation where someone or something is vulnerable to harm or destruction. The term often conveys a sense of urgency or critical threat. It is more commonly used in literature and formal contexts to describe situations where essential safety or wellbeing is compromised.

Synonyms

compromise, endanger, jeopardize, risk.

Examples of usage

The storm may peril the safety of the sailors.
His reckless behavior could peril the entire project.
The outdated equipment was periling the workers' lives.

Interesting Facts

Literature

In classic literature, characters often find themselves in perilous situations that lead to significant transformation.
The concept of peril is a driving force in many adventure novels, pushing heroes to confront their fears.
Dramatic irony often stems from characters being in peril while audiences are aware of dangers they are oblivious to.

Psychology

Experiencing peril can trigger a fight-or-flight response, which is essential for survival.
Humans are naturally drawn to stories with peril because they provoke strong emotional reactions and attach us to characters.
The perception of danger varies greatly among individuals, with personal experiences shaping one's response to risk.

Pop Culture

Modern action films frequently feature protagonists in perilous situations, often combining high stakes with thrilling outcomes.
Game franchises use peril as a central gameplay mechanic, where players must navigate dangers to progress.
In video games, peril often serves to test player skill and decision-making under pressure.

Environmental Science

Natural disasters put ecosystems in peril, leading to loss of biodiversity and habitat destruction.
Climate change is increasingly recognized as a perilous threat to human health and food security.
Conservation efforts often aim to reduce peril faced by endangered species, ensuring their survival.

Origin of 'periling'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Middle English 'perilen', which is derived from the Old French 'peril', meaning danger.
Rooted in Latin, 'periculum' means 'danger' or 'risk', highlighting the historical context of the term.
Similar terms include 'perilous' and 'perilously', which carry the same essence of risk.

The word 'peril' originates from the Old French term 'peril', which itself was derived from the Latin 'periculum', meaning 'danger' or 'risk'. This Latin root traces back to the Proto-Indo-European root *per-, which means 'to try out' or 'to risk'. The word has been part of the English language since the 14th century, originally appearing in texts to denote danger or risk in various contexts. Over time, its usage has expanded, and 'peril' has been adopted in both everyday language and literary contexts, highlighting the seriousness of risk in various scenarios, such as health, safety, and decisions.

Periling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations