Tarried Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tarried

[ˈtæriːd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

delay, linger

To tarry means to delay or be late in leaving a particular place. It can imply staying longer than expected, often due to reluctance to depart or because of distractions. Historically, 'tarry' has a sense of lingering in a situation that might require action or movement. It is often used in literary contexts to suggest a pause or hesitation in progress.

Synonyms

dawdle, delay, hesitate, linger, stay.

Examples of usage

  • We tarried at the café much longer than we planned.
  • Don't tarry too long, or you will miss the bus.
  • She tarried over her decision, weighing all the options.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Famous poems and stories have characters who tarried, reflecting on life’s moments before moving forward.
  • In Shakespeare's works, numerous characters tarry, creating tension through delay in decision-making.
  • The theme of tarrying often conveys deeper understanding and reflection in narrative arcs.

Psychology

  • Tarrying can be a metaphor for procrastination, where delaying action leads to increased anxiety.
  • It resonates with mindfulness practices, encouraging people to savor the present moment by not rushing.
  • The act of tarrying may highlight the struggle between the desire for progress and the need for reflection.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, characters who tarry often face consequences, illustrating urgency vs. caution in storytelling.
  • Songs occasionally depict romantic encounters that are extended due to moments of connection, embodying the essence of tarrying.
  • Television shows create tension through plot devices where characters tarry at critical junctures, affecting outcomes.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers emphasize the value of tarrying as a means to cultivate deeper understanding of life.
  • It can represent a philosophical stance against the fast-paced nature of modern life, advocating for slower reflection.
  • The existential idea of tarrying can lead to greater engagement with one’s own choices and the surrounding world.

Origin of 'tarried'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Middle English 'tarien', which means to delay or linger.
  • Related to the Old English word 'tarian', which also means to hinder or delay.
  • It originally described a longer stay, often due to hesitation or caution.

The word 'tarry' originates from the Middle English term 'tarien,' which means to delay or linger. This itself comes from the Old English 'terrian' or 'tærrian,' which carries similar meanings. The root of the word can be traced back to Germanic languages, showcasing a long engagement with the concept of time and how it influences actions. Over time, 'tarry' has maintained its connection to the idea of hesitation and lingering, often reflecting an emotional or psychological state, as it suggests a conscious choice to pause. In literature, this term has often been employed to convey a sense of nostalgia or reluctance, emphasizing human emotions in the face of change.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,101, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.