Redoubtable: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the French 'redoutable', meaning 'fearsome', which itself derives from the verb 'redouter', meaning 'to fear'.
• In English, it was first used in the late 15th century, primarily to describe people who inspired fear or respect.
• The prefix 're-' often signifies 'again' or 'back', while 'doubtable' comes from 'doubt', reflecting something that inspires awe or fear.

Literature

• In literature, characters described as redoubtable often take on leadership roles or face great challenges, showcasing their strength.
• This term is commonly used to describe historical figures like generals or influential leaders who commanded respect.
• A famous example might be Captain Ahab from Moby Dick, who is portrayed as both awe-inspiring and fearsome in his relentless pursuit.

Psychology

• Redoubtable figures can create a sense of anticipation and anxiety in others, which can motivate or intimidate depending on the context.
• People often perceive stronger leaders as more redoubtable, affecting their willingness to follow or challenge authority.
• This idea connects to concepts like the 'heroic narrative', where overcoming fears related to powerful individuals can lead to personal growth.

Pop Culture

• In movies, redoubtable characters might be portrayed as heroes facing villains or as formidable villains themselves.
• Think of redoubtable figures in films like Dumbledore from Harry Potter, who embodies wisdom and formidable power.
• In video games, bosses are often redoubtable, requiring players to strategize and overcome challenges to progress.

At rank #26,129, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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