Prised Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”“
Add to dictionary

prised

[praษชzd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

past tense

The term 'prised' is the simple past tense and past participle of the verb 'prise', which means to take something away from someone by force or to apply a lever to something in order to force it open. It is often used in contexts where something is being forcibly removed or separated. The action can be both physical and metaphorical, such as prising open a box or prising information from someone. The word is less commonly used compared to its synonym 'pry', but it carries a similar connotation of effortful extraction.

Synonyms

levered, pried, wrenched.

Examples of usage

  • She prised the lid off the box.
  • He had prised the secret from his friend.
  • They prised open the stuck door.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Shakespeare often used similar words to convey value and struggle, highlighting human emotions in relation to prized objects.
  • In literary contexts, the idea of something being prised open can symbolize uncovering truths or hidden emotions.

Culture

  • In some cultures, prizes are awarded in contests, symbolizing achievement and value, reminiscent of the term 'prised.'
  • In art and performance, items that are prised can represent recognition of creative efforts.

Psychology

  • Research shows that people often prize relationships and experiences more than material objects, linking the concept to emotional well-being.
  • The act of prising open a challenging situation can lead to personal growth and insight, according to psychological studies.

Colloquial Usage

  • 'Prise' is often used in everyday language to express how we value someone's opinion or contribution, e.g., 'I really prised his advice.'
  • The use of 'prised' reflects the effort put into relationships or achievements, making it a positive affirmation in conversations.

Origin of 'prised'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'prised' originates from the verb 'prise,' which means to force open or to obtain with difficulty.
  • It has roots in the Middle English word 'prise,' derived from the Old French 'priser,' meaning to appraise or value highly.

The word 'prise' originates from the Middle French verb 'priser', which means to value or to prize. This term was adapted into English in the late 15th century. The initial meaning of 'prise' was to value something or to appraise its worth, derived from the Latin 'pretium', meaning 'price'. Over time, the meaning evolved to emphasize the act of prying something open or forcing it out of a tight situation. The transformation illustrates the shift from valuing an object to the physical action of extracting it, which reflects a broader linguistic trend where words evolve to encapsulate new actions or meanings. The development of the past tense 'prised' maintains this progression, capturing the essence of the action in a completed form.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,565 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.