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Pucker Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pucker

[ˈpʌkər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

facial expression

To pucker means to contract or gather into wrinkles or folds, typically referring to the lips or skin. It often happens when someone is about to kiss or when they are indicating displeasure. The action creates a distinct shape and can convey various emotions. Puckering is commonly associated with expressions of surprise, concern, or playful gestures.

Synonyms

crinkle, fold, pout, wrinkle.

Examples of usage

  • She puckered her lips before giving him a kiss.
  • The child puckered his face at the sour candy.
  • He puckered his brow in confusion.
  • The old leather was starting to pucker with age.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Facial expressions involving puckering can be involuntary reactions to strong tastes, like sour foods.
  • Puckering is also connected to emotions; for instance, it can indicate surprise or disapproval.
  • Research shows that facial movements can influence emotions, reinforcing the relationship between pucker and feelings.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, characters often pucker their lips before delivering a dramatic kiss or making a funny face.
  • The term has been used in songs and literature to describe moments of love or distaste, capturing emotion through lip movements.
  • Pucker is a popular name for brands related to sour candies, emphasizing that tangy taste this movement often expresses.

Biology

  • Different animals use puckering in varying ways; for instance, some species pucker their lips to display aggression or fear.
  • In the context of fruit, puckering can happen when fruits ripen and their skin changes, affecting how they look and taste.
  • Plants can exhibit a form of puckering as a response to environmental stress – their leaves might wrinkle to conserve moisture.

Art

  • In painting and sculpture, artists often depict the human face with puckered lips to convey intense emotions.
  • Modern art sometimes uses the concept of puckering in abstract forms, representing the tension of inner feelings.
  • Face painting at festivities often features puckered lips, designed to make the wearer appear playful or funny.

Origin of 'pucker'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'pucker' comes from Middle English 'pukeren', meaning to twist or crumple.
  • It is believed to have Germanic roots related to 'pock', referring to a small bump or indentation in the skin.
  • Over time, the meaning evolved to include facial expressions associated with sour tastes.

The word 'pucker' traces its origins to the early 16th century, derived from the Middle English word 'pukkeren', which means to gather or fold. This term, in turn, is believed to be related to the Old English verb 'pucian', meaning to provoke or to cause to be excited. Over time, 'pucker' became specifically associated with the action of drawing together, especially concerning the lips or skin. The phonetic evolution reflects its consistent application to describe facial expressions that involve crinkling or folding, a quality that resonates in both verbal and non-verbal communication.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,828 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.