Slurred: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'slurred' comes from the Middle English 'slurren,' meaning to speak indistinctly or unclearly.
• It is linked to the Old Norse word 'slora,' which means to slop or spill, hinting at the idea of a 'spilled' speech.

Health

• Slurred speech can indicate various health conditions, including neurological disorders or the use of alcohol and drugs.
• In medical emergencies, sudden slurring of speech can signal a stroke, requiring immediate attention.

Literature

• Slurred speech often appears in literature to characterize drunk or tired characters, adding realism to their dialogue.
• Authors use the technique of slurring in poetry to convey emotion and sincerity, pushing readers to feel the character's state.

Pop Culture

• Popular songs often depict characters with slurred speech as a way to convey impairment or carefree partying, shaping public perception.
• Movies sometimes exaggerate slurred speech for comedic effect, emphasizing a character's drunkenness or confusion.

Psychology

• Psychological studies show that slurred speech can affect how a speaker is perceived, often leading to biases about intelligence or competence.
• People may also experience reduced clarity during emotional stress, demonstrating how mental state impacts communication.

Positioned at #24,009, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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• 24006 sandal
• 24007 rattles
• 24008 maladjustment
• 24009 slurred
• 24010 overshadow
• 24011 fennel
• 24012 relapsing
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