Sandwiched: meaning, definitions and examples

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sandwiched

 

[ˈsændwɪtʃt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

positioning something

The term 'sandwiched' refers to the act of placing something between two other objects or layers. This word is often used in various contexts, such as describing items that are crowded or pressed together, or metaphorically in situations where someone is caught between conflicting parties or opinions. The imagery is akin to placing a filling between two slices of bread, hence the origin of the term. It's commonly used in both literal and figurative senses.

Synonyms

compressed, inserted, stuck.

Examples of usage

  • The documents were sandwiched between the books.
  • He felt sandwiched between his job and family responsibilities.
  • The car was sandwiched in traffic.
  • She sandwiched her schedule between meetings.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • 'Sandwiched' comes from the word 'sandwich,' named after John Montagu, the 4th Earl of Sandwich, who liked to eat meat between slices of bread.
  • The term 'sandwich' was first recorded in the 18th century, rapidly becoming popular and leading to the verb form 'to sandwich.'
  • The act of 'sandwiching' something has evolved in language to mean placing something in a tight or confined space.

Cultural Impact

  • In many cultures, a sandwich represents more than just food; it symbolizes convenience and innovation in meals.
  • There are various types of sandwiches worldwide, each reflecting local ingredients and traditions, like the 'banh mi' in Vietnam or the 'croque monsieur' in France.
  • The sandwich has become a staple in fast food, representing a quick and inexpensive meal option for busy lives.

Psychology

  • Being 'sandwiched' in decision-making can lead to stress, as individuals feel caught between conflicting choices.
  • The term can also describe feeling trapped in relationships or situations, highlighting the psychological pressure of being squeezed between two parties.
  • Sandwich generation refers to adults caring for both their children and aging parents, experiencing unique challenges in balancing responsibilities.

Literature

  • The concept of being 'sandwiched' has been explored in literature, often symbolizing feelings of confinement or entrapment in societal norms.
  • Many writers use the imagery of a sandwich to describe layered personalities or complex situations, showing how life can stack up.
  • In plays and novels, characters often find themselves sandwiched between choices, reflecting real-life dilemmas in relatable ways.

Science

  • In physics, 'sandwiched' can describe objects that are compressed between two solid surfaces, affecting their shape and pressure.
  • Biological structures, such as cell membranes, often feature layers that can be analogous to the concept of being sandwiched, enhancing functional properties.
  • In material science, layered materials can be 'sandwiched' together to create better composites for use in construction and manufacturing.

Translations

Translations of the word "sandwiched" in other languages:

🇵🇹 encalhado

🇮🇳 सैंडविच किया हुआ

🇩🇪 eingeklemmt

🇮🇩 terjepit

🇺🇦 зажатий

🇵🇱 wciśnięty

🇯🇵 挟まれた

🇫🇷 coincé

🇪🇸 atrapado

🇹🇷 sıkışmış

🇰🇷 끼인

🇸🇦 محشور

🇨🇿 zkřížený

🇸🇰 zaseknutý

🇨🇳 夹在

🇸🇮 ujet

🇮🇸 föst

🇰🇿 қысылған

🇬🇪 დაჭერილი

🇦🇿 sıxılmış

🇲🇽 atrapado

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,966, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.