Quailed: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'quail' comes from the Middle English 'quailen,' which means 'to lose heart' or 'to tremble.'
• In the 14th century, the term was often associated with losing courage in battle or tough situations.
• It's also related to the Old French word 'cualler,' meaning 'to fall away or flinch.'

Literature

• Writers like William Shakespeare used the term to depict characters who falter in the face of challenges, showcasing human vulnerability.
• In many classic stories, characters quailed at daunting challenges, representing the universal fear of the unknown.
• Poets often describe quailing as part of the human experience, emphasizing the struggle between bravery and fear.

Psychology

• Quailing often ties to the fight-or-flight response, a natural human reaction to perceived threats.
• Experiencing fear can trigger a physical response where people may feel weak or freeze, akin to the feeling of quailing.
• Understanding quailing helps in exploring anxiety disorders and how they affect a person's ability to face situations.

Pop Culture

• In various films and books, characters often quail at supernatural events, heightening tension and suspense.
• Quailing is a common reaction depicted in horror genre, where characters face terrifying scenarios.
• Comedians often play with the idea of quailing for comedic effect, showing exaggerated fear in unexpected situations.

History

• Historical accounts often mention leaders who quailed in front of powerful adversaries, reminding us that fear is a human experience, even for the mighty.
• Quailing has historically been used to describe soldiers who faced overwhelming odds, framing narratives of courage and retreat.
• The feeling of quailing has been documented in various folklore, describing how towns or groups reacted when faced with invaders or disasters.

This word's position of #31,889 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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