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Pinched Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿค
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pinched

[pษชnสงt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

physical action

To pinch something means to quickly press or squeeze it tightly, usually between your fingers. This action can be used to take or remove a small amount of something, or as a playful gesture, such as pinching someone's cheek. It can also refer to engaging in a tight grip or to cause pain by applying pressure.

Synonyms

clamp, grab, nip, squeeze.

Examples of usage

  • She pinched her nose to block the smell.
  • He pinched a portion of dough from the larger mass.
  • The child pinched his sister's arm playfully.
  • I pinched myself to see if I was dreaming.
Context #2 | Adjective

emotional state

The term 'pinched' can describe a facial expression or appearance that suggests stress, worry, or hardship. When someone looks pinched, their face may appear tense or strained, often showing signs of anxiety or discomfort. This appearance can also occur due to lack of nutrition or health issues.

Synonyms

gaunt, haggard, strained, tense.

Examples of usage

  • She had a pinched look after the long meeting.
  • His pinched features highlighted the stress he had been under.
  • The illness left him with a pinched expression.
  • A pinched face can often indicate emotional distress.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • A pinched expression often indicates stress or discomfort, relaying non-verbal clues about oneโ€™s emotional state.
  • The 'pinched' sensation can resonate with feelings of anxiety or tension, manifesting physically as tightness in the body.
  • In studies, facial expressions described as 'pinched' can influence perceptions of a person's openness or friendliness.

Pop Culture

  • In classic cartoons, characters often display a pinched expression when scared or worried, amplifying the visual humor.
  • The term 'pinched' has been used in various artist names and song titles, suggesting themes of constriction or emotional struggle.
  • Actors often employ a pinched demeanor in dramatic scenes to convey intensity and urgency.

Literature

  • Authors frequently use 'pinched' to illustrate characters who are suffering or facing tough circumstances, creating relatable imagery.
  • Classic novels often describe characters with pinched faces to evoke sympathy or illustrate hardship.
  • The expression adds drama in poetry, portraying not just physical states, but broader emotional landscapes.

Science

  • Researchers examine the physiological effects of stress, noting how tense muscles can create a 'pinched' sensation.
  • In studies of non-verbal communication, pinched expressions are identified as universal indicators of distress or displeasure across cultures.
  • In culinary science, chefs sometimes pinched dough or ingredients to enhance flavors or textures, combining art and science.

Origin of 'pinched'

Main points about word origin

  • The term originates from the Old English word 'piccan,' meaning to nip or squeeze.
  • In the 16th century, 'pinched' started being used in various contexts, including to describe something that seemed thin or tight.
  • The evolution of the word includes its connection to expressions of concern, as in having a pinched look on one's face.

The word 'pinched' derives from the Middle English term 'pinchien', which is rooted in the Old French 'pinchier', meaning 'to nip' or 'to seize'. This word can also be traced back to the Latin 'pinctiare', a derivative of 'pinctus', meaning 'to prick'. Over time, 'pinched' has evolved to not only describe the physical act of squeezing but also encapsulates an emotional state characterized by tension or distress. The application of 'pinched' in both contexts reflects the versatility of the term, which has been in use since at least the 14th century. Its rich history illustrates the language's ability to adapt and convey complex human experiences.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,457, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.