Piggier Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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piggier
[ˈpɪɡiər ]
Definition
comparative form
Piggier is the comparative form of piggy, which means more greedy or selfish. It is often used to describe someone who wants more than their fair share or exhibits pig-like traits. It can refer to behavior that is considered gluttonous or excessively indulgent.
Synonyms
gluttonous, greedier, selfish.
Examples of usage
- He's getting piggier by the day with all the treats he keeps asking for.
- The dog seems piggier after we started giving him table scraps.
- She has become piggier since starting her new job with the free snacks.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- In children's literature, pigs are often portrayed as fun-loving creatures, frequently seeking out more food or adventures.
- The famous phrase 'picking the pig' in games suggests being greedy, reinforcing how pig imagery relates to wanting more.
- In cartoons, characters often become 'piggier' when they see delicious treats, reflecting humorous exaggerations of greed.
Psychology
- Research shows that desires for more can lead to moments of joy but can also create dissatisfaction when overindulgence occurs.
- The psychology of wanting more, or greed, often relates to feelings of insecurity and the belief that not enough is ever truly enough.
- Behavioural studies indicate that when individuals are in competitive environments, the tendency to be 'piggier' increases, as they strive to get ahead.
Literature
- In classic tales, characters displaying 'piggier' traits often face consequences, illustrating moral lessons about moderation and self-control.
- Books often use the theme of greed, associating it with pig-like behaviors to depict societal warnings against excess.
- The character of the Three Little Pigs has deeper meanings about resourcefulness and the pitfalls of being too 'piggier' with comforts.
Culinary
- In cooking, the word can humorously describe someone who keeps wanting to try more dishes even after a full meal.
- Food portions in modern dining can play into the idea of being piggier, as many people seek larger servings.
- Certain cultures emphasize sharing food, contrasting with the notion of being 'piggier,' which can highlight social behaviors around dining.
Origin of 'piggier'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'piggier' is a comparative form of 'piggy,' which can describe someone who is greedy or messy.
- The base word 'pig' comes from Old English 'picga,' meaning a young pig, which evolved to symbolize greed in language.
- Comparative forms like 'piggier' are used to express greater intensity, showing the quality is increasing.
The word 'piggy' originates from the noun 'pig', which has its roots in Old English 'picga', possibly linked to the Proto-Germanic '*piggaz'. The term 'piggy' emerged in English during the late 19th century, often used as a diminutive term for a young or small pig. Over time, it evolved into an informal descriptor for greediness or gluttony, especially among children. The comparative 'piggier' arises naturally from the rules of English grammar, wherein adjectives can take on comparative forms. The playful and sometimes pejorative connotation of 'piggier' reflects societal attitudes towards excess and indulgence, tying back to the image of pigs as voracious eaters.