Untame - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

animal behavior

To untame is to restore wildness or natural behavior in a previously domesticated or tamed animal. It often involves the process of allowing the animal to regain its instinctual, untamed qualities.

Synonyms

release, unleash, wild.

Examples of usage

The park ranger decided to untame the rescued wild horses.
In an effort to untame the foxes, they were reintroduced to their natural habitat.
She worked with the trainer to untame the behavior of the once domesticated dog.
Efforts were made to untame the parrots before releasing them back into the wild.

Interesting Facts

Wildlife

Certain species of animals are referred to as 'untame' due to their inherent instincts that resist domestication.
Wild horses, often a symbol of freedom, are an example of untame creatures that thrive in their natural habitat.
In ecosystems, untame species play critical roles in maintaining the balance within their environments.

Psychology

Untamed behavior in humans may reflect higher levels of creativity, as letting go of inhibitions can lead to innovative ideas.
In psychology, embracing one's 'untame' aspects can facilitate personal growth and authentic self-expression.
The concept of 'untame' can be related to the idea of unstructured play, beneficial for children's decision-making skills.

Literature

In literature, characters who are untame often symbolize rebellion and the pursuit of freedom, challenging societal norms.
Classic tales often portray untame heroes who journey into the wild, discovering their true selves along the way.
Famous novels like 'Into the Wild' explore the theme of untamed nature and the human spirit's desire for independence.

Art

Untamed elements in art can evoke strong emotions; informal brush strokes and vibrant colors break traditional constraints.
Artists often use the concept of being untame to express raw emotions, reflecting what lies deep within their psyche.
The 'wild' artistic movements, such as Abstract Expressionism, emphasize breaking from the structured approaches of previous styles.

Origin of 'untame'

Main points about word origin

The prefix 'un-' comes from Old English meaning 'not', while 'tame' has roots in the Latin word 'domare', meaning 'to subdue'.
The term suggests a state of freedom, contrasting the idea of being brought under control.
This word reflects a blend of both Old English and Latin influences demonstrating the evolution of language.

The word 'untame' is derived from the prefix 'un-', which is a negation that indicates the opposite or removal of a quality, and 'tame,' which comes from the Old English 'tam' meaning 'gentle' or 'subdued.' The concept of tameness has historically referred to the process of domesticating wild animals for companionship or utility, while untaming suggests a return to a state of natural behavior. Over time, the use of 'untame' has evolved to encompass not just animals but also situations and emotions characterized by a lack of restraint or wildness. This transition reflects cultural attitudes towards nature, freedom, and the complexities of human-animal relationships.

Untame Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations