Sordid Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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sordid
[ˈsɔːrdɪd ]
Definition
moral context
The word 'sordid' refers to something that is characterized by filth, grime, or the morally reprehensible. It often describes actions, motives, or situations that are base, dishonorable, or unethical. For example, sordid deeds in a crime context can indicate acts that are both illegal and morally repugnant. This term underscores a sense of betrayal, greed, or corruption in human behavior, often invoking a reaction of disgust or disdain.
Synonyms
base, dirty, filthy, vile, wretched.
Examples of usage
- The sordid details of the scandal were revealed.
- He was known for his sordid past.
- The film depicted the sordid life of its protagonist.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- In Charles Dickens' works, 'sordid' often describes poverty and grim living conditions.
- The term appears in 19th-century literature to critique moral decay during Industrial Revolution.
- D.H. Lawrence frequently used 'sordid' to illustrate the bleakness of human experiences.
Psychology
- Research suggests sordid circumstances can deeply impact mental health, leading to feelings of shame.
- Experiencing sordid situations can alter one's perception of social and moral values.
- The concept often is linked to trauma, where sordid environments can contribute to chronic stress.
Pop Culture
- Films often depict sordid characters as anti-heroes, showing the darker side of human nature.
- Reality TV shows frequently explore sordid themes for entertainment, indulging in scandalous behaviors.
- In music, 'sordid' is used to describe gritty lyrics that reflect the harsh realities of life.
History
- Throughout history, sordid tales were often told in cautionary fables to teach moral lessons.
- In the 18th century, political scandals were often described as sordid, reflecting societal values of the time.
- The notion of sordid practices has influenced various reforms, such as those in sanitation and ethics.
Origin of 'sordid'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the Latin 'sordidus', meaning dirty or filthy.
- In Old French, the term 'sordide' also meant dirty, which influenced its English usage.
- It first appeared in English texts around the late 14th century.
The word 'sordid' comes from the Latin term 'sordidus', which means 'dirty' or 'filthy'. It initially referred to the physical state of being unclean or covered with grime. Over time, the usage of 'sordid' evolved to encompass not just the physical but also the moral degradation associated with actions, behaviors, and motives considered lowly or shameful. Its entry into the English language can be traced back to the early 17th century, and it has retained these connotations of moral corruption or vile behavior throughout its history, often used in literature and discussions concerning ethics and morality.