Rip Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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rip

[rɪp ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

rest in peace

To rest in peace is to be dead and in a state of peacefulness and tranquility.

Examples of usage

  • He passed away peacefully and is now resting in peace.
  • May he rest in peace.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • The phrase 'R.I.P.' is commonly used on gravestones, standing for 'Rest in Peace' in memory of those who have passed away.
  • In music, 'rip' can refer to recordings that are copied from original sources, often shared online.
  • The term is also prevalent in video gaming, where 'rip' can describe defeating an opponent quickly or with ease.

Science

  • In biology, when tissues are torn or damaged, the term 'rip' can be used to describe the physical effect.
  • Ripping can also refer to the process of breaking down materials in physics, like when stress causes a material to fail.
  • In ecology, ripping can describe the action of loosening soil for better irrigation and plant growth.

Literature

  • Ripping stories or plots apart can be a technique in literature, where authors sometimes deconstruct narratives for deeper meaning.
  • In horror literature, the act of ripping could symbolize violence or the breakdown of sanity.
  • Metaphorically, 'rip' can represent the tearing apart of relationships or trust in narrative arcs.

Psychology

  • In psychological terms, a sudden emotional 'rip' can refer to a deep, often painful, break in relationships or experiences.
  • Ripping apart emotions can symbolize how individuals cope with trauma, leading to understanding or healing over time.
  • The phrase 'a rip in reality' can describe moments where one's perception of the world seems to fall apart.

Origin of 'rip'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Old English 'ripan', which means to tear or rip apart.
  • In the 15th century, it started being used in a variety of contexts, from fabric to paper tearing.
  • It's related to similar words in other languages, like 'ripar' in Italian, which also means to tear.

The term 'rest in peace' has been used in English as a prayerful wish for the deceased since at least the 18th century. It is often seen on gravestones and used in funeral services to express the hope that the departed person is now at peace.


See also: ripped, ripple.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,289, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.