Unbidden Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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unbidden
[ʌnˈbɪd.ən ]
Definition
unexpected occurrence
Unbidden refers to something that occurs or is done spontaneously, without being requested or expected. It often describes thoughts, emotions, or actions that arise involuntarily. The term suggests a sense of being uninvited or unasked for, highlighting a lack of control over the event or feeling. This word can apply to both negative and positive experiences, such as feelings of sorrow or bursts of laughter.
Synonyms
involuntary, spontaneous, uninvited, unrequested.
Examples of usage
- Tears came unbidden to her eyes.
- He felt unbidden joy at the reunion.
- An unbidden thought crossed his mind.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- In literature, authors often use 'unbidden' to evoke surprise or the arrival of unexpected thoughts or emotions, highlighting their spontaneous nature.
- Famous works like Keats' poetry explore themes where feelings arise unbidden, reflecting the complexity of human experience.
- The term is frequently found in gothic novels, where eerie occurrences often happen unbidden, enhancing suspense.
Psychology
- 'Unbidden' thoughts can relate to the phenomenon of intrusive memories, which can occur without conscious control.
- Creativity often sparks unbidden ideas, where inspiration appears suddenly, providing insights or artistic breakthroughs.
- Mindfulness practices often encourage awareness of unbidden feelings or thoughts, promoting acceptance rather than judgment.
Cultural References
- The concept of things occurring unbidden is explored in various cultures through stories about fate, emphasizing the unpredictability of life.
- In music and art, 'unbidden' moments are celebrated as spontaneous bursts of creativity, seen as essential to the artistic process.
- In ancient proverbs across cultures, the idea of unbidden events serves as a reminder of life's unpredictability and the need for acceptance.
Everyday Use
- In conversations, 'unbidden' is often used to describe compliments or acts of kindness that occur unexpectedly, offering a pleasant surprise.
- The word can also apply to reminders or recollections that emerge without prompting, serving as a reminder of our subconscious mind.
- In modern discussions, unbidden emotions can be linked to mental health, indicating the need for acknowledgment and management of unexpected feelings.
Origin of 'unbidden'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'unbidden' comes from the Old English 'bidde,' meaning to ask or request, which later evolved to imply something occurring without request.
- In medieval times, 'bidden' was often used in formal invitations or commands, emphasizing the importance of asking.
- The prefix 'un-' negates the original meaning, turning 'bidden' into 'not asked for' or 'unexpected.'
The word 'unbidden' originates from Middle English, combining the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' or 'opposite of' with 'bidden', the past participle of 'bid', which means 'to command' or 'to request'. The root 'bid' comes from Old English 'bidde' and is related to the Old Norse verb 'bida', meaning 'to ask' or 'to command'. The evolution of 'unbidden' reflects a linguistic shift that emphasized the absence of a request or command, emphasizing the naturalness of the action or occurrence. First recorded in the 14th century, the term has been commonly used in literary and formal contexts, illustrating involuntary emotions or thoughts that arise unexpectedly. Over time, 'unbidden' has maintained its connotation of something that comes without solicitation or explicit prompting, retaining its application in both emotional expressions and spontaneous actions.