Shellacking: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'shellacking' is believed to originate from 'shellac,' a varnish that gives a hard finish, hence implying a hard defeat.
• It was popularized during the 19th century in American English, often used in sports contexts.
• The term suggests receiving a strong blow – metaphorically or literally – much like how shellac hardens and protects.

Pop Culture

• In the realm of sports, 'shellacking' is often referenced in commentary to describe when one team wins by a large margin.
• The term has appeared in various movies and TV shows, usually in scenes depicting comedic or dramatic losses.
• In video games, a 'shellacking' often refers to a player being thoroughly outplayed or defeated.

Psychology

• Experiencing a shellacking in a competitive setting can affect self-esteem, with individuals sometimes struggling to regain confidence afterward.
• Studies show that how one reacts to severe losses can influence future performance and risk-taking behavior.
• Support and encouragement play a critical role in helping individuals recover from the psychological impacts of a significant defeat.

Literature

• The term has been employed in various literary works to describe not just physical fights but also emotional or social defeats.
• Authors often use 'shellacking' to convey the intensity of rivalry or competition, thereby enhancing the narrative conflict.
• In poetry, the use of 'shellacking' can evoke vivid imagery of struggles, emphasizing resilience or vulnerability.

At position #41,211, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.

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• 41208 tsarina
• 41209 cordoning
• 41210 effervesced
• 41211 shellacking
• 41212 dishevelment
• 41213 unclogged
• 41214 jackknifing
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