Shouldered Meaning: Definition and Examples
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shouldered
[ˈʃoʊldərd ]
Definition
physical support
Shouldered is the past tense of the verb shoulder, which means to carry a burden or load on one's shoulder. This term is often used in both a literal and metaphorical sense. Literally, it refers to the act of lifting something heavy and placing it on one's shoulder for support. Metaphorically, it can denote taking on responsibility or a burden in various contexts.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He shouldered the heavy box all the way home.
- During the crisis, she shouldered the weight of the team's expectations.
- The soldier shouldered his rifle as they prepared to march.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- Writers often use 'shouldered' metaphorically to represent accepting challenges or burdens, like in many hero stories.
- In poetry, images of shouldering can evoke feelings of strength, sacrifice, or duty.
Psychology
- Taking on responsibilities can significantly impact mental health, as it involves stress management and resilience.
- People who shoulder burdens often exhibit traits of responsibility and leadership, showing how our actions shape our identities.
Pop Culture
- In movies, characters are often shown 'shouldering' family or team responsibilities, creating dramatic tension.
- Music lyrics frequently reference shouldering burdens as a metaphor for life struggles, resonating with listeners' personal experiences.
History
- Throughout history, the term has been used to describe the role of individuals taking on societal burdens, such as leaders in times of war.
- The phrase 'shouldered the blame' has historical roots in justice and accountability, emphasizing the weight of responsibility in public affairs.
Origin of 'shouldered'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old English 'sculdor', which refers to the part of the body that supports weight.
- Related words in different languages show the concept of carrying an obligation, such as the Latin 'onus' meaning burden.
The word 'shoulder' originates from the Old English term 'sculdor,' which was used to denote the part of the body that connects the arm to the torso. Its roots can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word '*skuldruz'. Through the evolution of the English language, 'shoulder' has adopted various meanings, including both its anatomical reference and its metaphorical uses. The verb form 'to shoulder' emerged in the English lexicon in the late Middle Ages, often used in literature to signify the act of taking on responsibilities or burdens. Over time, the term has been utilized in various contexts, from physical labor to emotional and social responsibilities, expanding its relevance in both everyday and literary language.