Ripper Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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ripper
[ˈrɪpər ]
Definitions
slang term
A ripper can be informal slang for something that is very good or impressive. It can also refer to an extremely good performance or event.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- That concert was a ripper!
- We had a ripper time at the party.
- The game was a total ripper.
historical figure
The term 'ripper' is often associated with Jack the Ripper, an unidentified serial killer active in London in the late 1800s. The name has become synonymous with gruesome acts of murder.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Jack the Ripper remains one of history's most infamous criminals.
- Many theories surround the identity of the Ripper.
- The Ripper murders were never solved.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
History
- The term gained notoriety from Jack the Ripper, who was a mysterious figure in London during the late 19th century.
- This individual was linked to a series of gruesome crimes in 1888, leading to a widespread media frenzy and public fear.
Pop Culture
- Jack the Ripper has inspired countless books, films, and TV shows, creating a lasting fascination with true crime stories.
- The term 'ripper' is often used in modern slang to describe something that is very good or excellent, like a 'ripper movie.'
Technology
- In the realm of computers, a 'ripper' may refer to software that extracts audio or video content from disks.
- This process allows users to convert physical media into digital formats for easier access and sharing.
Music
- The term has been adopted by musicians and bands to imply energetic or exciting performances.
- In heavy metal, a 'ripper' can refer to a ripping guitar solo that showcases technical skill and speed.
Origin of 'ripper'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'ripper' comes from the verb 'rip,' which means to tear something apart quickly.
- It was first used in English around the late 1800s, mostly in relation to tools and actions involving cutting.
The word 'ripper' originates from the Old English word 'rippa', which is derived from the verb 'rippan', meaning 'to tear or rip'. It became more widely used in the late 19th century, particularly in England, where it took on colloquial meanings such as 'fantastic' or 'excellent'. The association with Jack the Ripper came about in 1888, when a series of brutal murders in London's Whitechapel district captured the public's imagination and fuelled a media frenzy. This led to the name 'Jack the Ripper' being used to describe the unknown assailant. Since then, the term has evolved to encapsulate both positive and negative connotations, depending on the context in which it is used.