Plodding Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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plodding
[ˈplɒd.ɪŋ ]
Definitions
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.
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.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
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.
Origin of 'plodding'
Main points about word origin
- 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.
The word 'plodding' originates from the early Middle English term 'plodden', which meant to 'walk heavily' or 'tread'. It is likely derived from the Old English 'plod', meaning 'to tread heavily', with influences from the Middle Dutch term 'ploden'. In its early usage, it conveyed a sense of laborious walking and has gradually evolved to encompass figurative meanings, referring to anything that moves or progresses slowly, whether in a physical or metaphorical sense. The word has been in use since at least the 15th century, illustrating both literal movement and an attitude of persistence despite difficulty.