Plodding: meaning, definitions and examples

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plodding

[ˈplɒd.ɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

moving slowly

To plod means to walk heavily and slowly, often because of exhaustion or difficulty. It can describe both physical movement as well as a slow, laborious process.

Synonyms

march, plod along, stomp, trudge.

Examples of usage

The workers were plodding through the muddy field.
She plodded along the snowy path, feeling tired.
They plodded home after a long day.
He plods through his studies every night.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

slow and laborious

When something is described as plodding, it suggests a slow and methodical pace, often lacking excitement or energy. It can refer to both literal movement and metaphorical situations, such as storytelling or pacing in a narrative.

Synonyms

heavy, monotonous, slow, tedious.

Examples of usage

The plodding pace of the movie made it hard to stay engaged.
His plodding approach to problem-solving often bored his colleagues.
The novel's plodding plot did not captivate readers.
They found his plodding explanation tedious.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word originated from the Old English term 'plodden', which meant to walk heavily or clumsily.
Related to the word 'plod', which refers to the sound of heavy footsteps.
In different contexts, the word can hint at someone who is diligent but not in a hurry.

Literature

In novels, characters who are described as 'plodding' often represent steadfastness or tirelessness in their pursuits.
The term can sometimes have a whimsical tone in poetry, painting a vivid image of someone slow yet purposeful.
Notable works often use 'plodding' to depict heroes facing long, arduous journeys, emphasizing their persistence.

Psychology

People who are described as plodding might also be seen as dependable and reliable, valuing consistency over speed.
Cognitive research shows that taking time to think and act can result in deeper understanding and better decision-making.
The perception of a plodding pace can evoke feelings of patience and resilience in challenging situations.

Pop Culture

In films, characters who move in a plodding manner are often depicted as the wise, older sage who knows that slow and steady wins the race.
The term can also describe certain comedic styles, where the slow build-up of actions leads to unpredictable funny outcomes.
Music often features 'plodding' rhythms to create a sense of unease or build suspense.

Science

Studies in animal behavior showcase 'plodding' as a technique to conserve energy, especially in larger animals.
Some technological advancements aim to mimic 'plodding' mechanics, focusing on stamina in robotics for prolonged tasks.
In biology, plodding movements can be seen in certain species that adapt to slow environments, emphasizing evolutionary balance.

Translations

Translations of the word "plodding" in other languages:

🇵🇹 caminhando lentamente

🇮🇳 धीरे चलना

🇩🇪 schlepperisch

🇮🇩 berjalan lambat

🇺🇦 повільно йти

🇵🇱 wleczenie się

🇯🇵 のろのろ歩く

🇫🇷 marcher lentement

🇪🇸 caminar lentamente

🇹🇷 ağır ağır yürümek

🇰🇷 느리게 걷다

🇸🇦 المشي ببطء

🇨🇿 pomalé chodit

🇸🇰 pomalé chodenie

🇨🇳 缓慢行走

🇸🇮 počasi hoditi

🇮🇸 hægja

🇰🇿 баяу жүру

🇬🇪 დროიდან დროამდე სიარული

🇦🇿 yavaş-yavaş getmək

🇲🇽 caminar lentamente

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,572, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

...
23569 scavenger
23570 swooped
23571 hark
23572 plodding
23573 climactic
23574 termite
23575 midshipman
...