Sicced Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Pop Culture

• In various movies and TV shows, you can hear characters say 'sic 'em' to command dogs or other animals to attack.
• The phrase is commonly used in crime shows to indicate that a mafia or gang member is being sent after someone.
• In internet culture, 'sicced' has seen a revival as a way to describe unleashing an aggressive response in online arguments.

Psychology

• Using 'sicced' often indicates a scenario of aggression and may relate to the concepts of dominance and control in social interactions.
• The act of siccing can be a form of manipulation, often relying on the emotional state of either the 'siccer' or the 'sicced'.
• Researchers note that the behavior of siccing can tap into instinctual responses, such as protecting territory or kin.

Literature

• In many literary works, the concept of siccing embodies themes of loyalty and betrayal, as characters command loyalty from their allies.
• Authors often use the act of siccing as a plot device that propels action or conflict forward, showcasing the dynamics of power.
• Classic literature often depicts characters using siccing to reflect their authority and dominance over others.

History

• Historically, the term was often associated with hunting dogs, where hunters would command their dogs to chase game.
• War leaders would 'sic' troops on their enemies, emphasizing a sense of aggressive leadership during battle.
• Tasmanian devils were famously sicced onto invasive species in conservation efforts, showcasing the term's application in environmental contexts.

Main points about word origin

• The term 'sic' comes from the Old English word 'sician,' meaning to set upon or attack.
• It was first recorded in usage during the early 19th century, often in hunting and dog training contexts.
• The modern spelling 'sicced' derives from the usage of 'sic' as a command to animals, especially dogs.

The term 'sic' is derived from the Latin word 'sic', meaning 'thus' or 'so', which was typically used in writing to indicate that something was quoted verbatim. In English, the word evolved to denote the act of setting upon or inciting a creature to attack, particularly dogs. The word gained popularity in the 19th century, particularly in the context of dog ownership and training, where one would command their dog to attack or chase a target. This usage reflects a broader metaphor for encouraging or inciting any aggressive action, not limited to animals. The phrase often appears in command forms, instructing either a beast or an entity to take action upon a designated target, providing a vivid image of direct aggression that resonates within both literal and figurative contexts.