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Trudging Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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trudging

[ˈtrədʒɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

walking heavily

Trudging refers to walking slowly and with heavy steps, often due to exhaustion or difficult conditions. This term is commonly used to describe movement when one is weary or burdened, conveying a sense of laborious effort. The slow pace associated with trudging portrays a struggle against fatigue, obstacles, or unfavorable weather. It is often used in literature to evoke imagery of perseverance in challenging situations.

Synonyms

marching, plodding, slogging, stomping.

Examples of usage

  • After a long day at work, she found herself trudging home.
  • The hikers were trudging through the thick mud.
  • He trudge through the snow, feeling the weight of his backpack.
  • They were trudging along the sandy beach, exhausted from the heat.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In classic novels, trudging often represents a character's journey or struggle, highlighting perseverance.
  • Authors like Charles Dickens use the act of trudging to symbolize life's burdens faced by their characters.
  • Trudging is used in poetry to evoke feelings of weariness and the passage of time.

Psychology

  • People often associate trudging with mental fatigue, reflecting a connection between our physical state and emotional well-being.
  • The act of trudging can symbolize resilience, illustrating how individuals press forward despite obstacles.
  • Psychological studies show that physical movement can influence mood, and trudging may indicate a low-energy emotional state.

Pop Culture

  • In films, trudging is often depicted in scenes of characters overcoming obstacles, showing dedication and hardship.
  • Popular music sometimes uses trudging in lyrics to describe emotional struggles or the feeling of being weighed down.
  • In video games, characters might trudge through challenging landscapes, symbolizing their growth through struggles.

Nature

  • Animals in the wild, like bears, often trudge through snow or mud during foraging, showing survival instincts.
  • Trudging through nature can be a way for people to connect with their surroundings, even while facing tough conditions.
  • Biodiversity is often reflected by the paths animals choose, with some trudging through harsh environments to find food and safety.

Origin of 'trudging'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'trudge' comes from the Middle English term 'trudgen', which referred to making one's way with difficulty.
  • It is linked to the German word 'trekken', meaning 'to pull' or 'to drag along'.
  • The evolution of 'trudge' reflects the human experience of struggle in various environments.

The word 'trudge' originates from the early 19th century, deriving from the 18th-century English dialect term 'trudgen'. It is believed to have roots in the Middle Dutch word 'truden', which means to tread or walk. The evolution of the term has centered around the slow and laborious nature of walking, particularly in adverse or tiring conditions. Its usage in English literature has often depicted themes of perseverance and struggle, making it a vivid descriptor for tiresome journeys. Over time, 'trudge' has maintained its connotation of effort and weariness, becoming a common expression in both spoken and written language.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,731, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.