Shouldered: meaning, definitions and examples
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shouldered
[ ˈʃoʊldərd ]
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.
Word origin
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.