Shirking: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Old English 'scierran', meaning to 'cut off' or 'flinch'.
• Initially, it suggested avoiding tasks; its use evolved in the 19th century to describe avoiding responsibility.

Psychology

• Shirking can be linked to procrastination, where individuals delay duties to avoid stress.
• Research shows people often shirk in group settings, assuming others will take on the work, a phenomenon known as social loafing.

Workplace Dynamics

• In a professional environment, shirking can lead to decreased team morale and productivity.
• Employers often look for signs of avoidance behavior to address work engagement and accountability.

Cultural References

• The concept of shirking is often humorously depicted in cartoons where characters cleverly avoid doing chores.
• In many stories, characters who shirk responsibilities eventually face consequences, emphasizing the importance of accountability.

Historical Context

• During the Industrial Revolution, shirking became an important topic as workers negotiated fair labor practices.
• In military history, shirking can refer to avoiding duty, which has often been seen as a serious offense in armed forces over time.

At rank #28,897, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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