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Savage Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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savage

[ˈsævɪdʒ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

wild behavior

Fierce, violent, and uncontrolled in behavior or emotions.

Synonyms

barbaric, brutal, ferocious.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
savage

Use this word to describe something or someone as wild, untamed, or extremely violent.

  • The animal was acting in a savage manner, attacking anything that came close
ferocious

This word is used for intense, fierce, or extremely aggressive behavior, often with the implication of great power.

  • The tiger gave a ferocious roar that echoed through the jungle
barbaric

This word is used to describe actions or behaviors that are extremely cruel, uncivilized, or lacking any kind of sophistication.

  • The punishment was considered barbaric by modern standards
brutal

This word often describes forceful, aggressive behavior that causes physical harm or pain, or an unpleasant situation.

  • The football game turned brutal after the referee's controversial decision

Examples of usage

  • The savage beast attacked anything that came near.
  • His savage temper often got him into trouble.
Context #2 | Noun

person

A person belonging to a primitive tribe or group.

Synonyms

barbarian, native, tribesman.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
savage

Use this word to describe someone or something that is extremely brutal or violent. This word carries a strong negative connotation and might be considered offensive.

  • The movie portrayed the invaders as savages, attacking without mercy.
  • His actions were so savage that they shocked everyone.
barbarian

This word is used to describe a person who is perceived as uncivilized or primitive, often from a historical perspective. It also carries a negative connotation and might be offensive if used to describe people in a modern context.

  • The Romans considered the Germanic tribes to be barbarians.
  • He acted like a complete barbarian at the dinner party.
native

This term is generally used to refer to the original inhabitants of a place. It is neutral but can become sensitive depending on the context. It's crucial to use it respectfully.

  • The native people of this region have a rich cultural history.
  • She is a native speaker of Spanish.
tribesman

This word is used to describe a male member of a tribe. It is neutral but specific to the context of traditional tribal societies.

  • The tribesman welcomed us into their community.
  • He is a respected tribesman among his people.

Examples of usage

  • The savages lived in the jungle and had little contact with the outside world.
  • The explorer encountered a tribe of savages during his expedition.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • In early colonial times, 'savage' was often used to describe Indigenous peoples, showcasing a colonial perspective that deemed them as uncivilized.
  • During the American Revolutionary War, the term was used to describe brutal tactics in conflicts, emphasizing the ferocity of the battles.

Pop Culture

  • The term has been popularized in modern social media and music, often used to describe bold actions or styles, like in rap battles.
  • The TV show 'Savage Love' used the term to discuss relationships in a humorous and edgy way.

Psychology

  • The perception of 'savage' behavior often links back to survival instincts, where aggression can be seen as a natural reaction to threats.
  • In some psychological terms, savagery can indicate a regression to primal instincts, highlighting how stress can influence human behavior.

Literature

  • Savage themes are prevalent in classic literature, often used to explore the contrast between civilization and the primal nature of humanity.
  • In 'The Lord of the Flies,' characters are described as savage as they descend into chaos, reflecting the struggle of order against instinct.

Origin of 'savage'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin word 'silvaticus,' meaning 'of the woods' or 'wild.'
  • In Old French, 'savage' meant 'wild or untamed,' which reflects its meaning today.

The word 'savage' originated from the Middle French word 'sauvage', which meant 'wild' or 'unspoiled'. It has been used in English since the 14th century to describe wild or untamed behavior. Over time, the word has evolved to also describe something brutal or fierce. In modern usage, 'savage' can be both positive (as in 'savage beauty') and negative (as in 'savage attack').

See also: savagely, savagery.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,661 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.