Unruliest: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• Derived from the word 'ruly,' which comes from 'rule,' meaning to control or guide.
• The prefix 'un-' indicates the opposite, giving 'unruly' the meaning of being out of control.
• The term has roots in Middle English, where 'rulien' meant to be governed or governed by rules.

Literature

• In Shakespeare's plays, characters often display unruly behavior, reflecting their desires or rebellion.
• Classic children's literature, like 'The Wild Things' in 'Where the Wild Things Are,' portrays unruly creatures that embody childhood chaos.
• Unruly characters often symbolize freedom and the struggle against societal constraints in various novels.

Pop Culture

• Television shows often depict unruly teenagers rebelling against authority, creating drama and humor.
• In music, many songs celebrate unruliness and freedom, from punk rock anthems to modern pop hits about breaking the rules.
• Reality TV often showcases the most unruly contestants, capturing viewers' attention with their unpredictable behavior.

Psychology

• Unruly behavior in children can be a sign of creativity or discomfort in social rules.
• Studies suggest that unruly adults may struggle with self-regulation, impacting their professional and personal lives.
• Unruliness can also serve as a form of communication, indicating a need for attention or support.

History

• Throughout history, unruly mobs have sometimes been a catalyst for change, pushing against oppressive regimes.
• The 'unruly' behavior of certain groups during revolutions often led to significant societal transformations.
• In colonial contexts, unruliness was frequently met with strict penal measures, highlighting societal tensions.