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Vehemence Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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vehemence

[ˈviːə.məns ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

intense emotion

Vehemence refers to the intensity or forcefulness of emotion or expression. It is often associated with strong feelings, such as anger, passion, or enthusiasm. This term is commonly used to describe an outpouring of feelings that is difficult to contain or control. The vehemence of someone's protest or argument can indicate deep conviction or strong opposition to a particular issue.

Synonyms

fervor, forcefulness, intensity, passion, zeal.

Examples of usage

  • Her vehemence in the debate surprised everyone.
  • The vehemence of his anger was palpable.
  • She spoke with vehemence about the importance of climate change action.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Many classic authors, such as Shakespeare, used the term to illustrate intense emotions in their characters.
  • In modern literature, the word often describes heated debates or strong reactions in poetry and prose.
  • Contemporary writers frequently employ it to characterize fervent advocacy or passionate love in narratives.

Psychology

  • Psychological studies show that expressing vehemence can be linked to elevated levels of stress or anxiety.
  • Strong emotional expressions can help individuals feel more secure in their beliefs and foster connection with like-minded individuals.
  • Experts suggest that while vehemence can energize a conversation, it can also lead to conflict if not balanced with listening.

Politics

  • The term often appears in political discourse, highlighting the passionate arguments made by activists and leaders.
  • Vehemence is sometimes seen as necessary to galvanize support for a cause during rallies or debates.
  • However, excessive vehemence can polarize opinions, leading to division rather than unity.

Pop Culture

  • Movies and songs frequently depict characters expressing vehemence during moments of revelation or confrontation.
  • Vehemence in music can often convey deep emotional truths, particularly in genres like rock or hip-hop.
  • Social media has amplified expressions of vehemence, making it easy for passionate opinions to spread rapidly.

Origin of 'vehemence'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'vehemens', which combines 'vehere' (to carry) and 'mens' (mind), suggesting a strong and active mind.
  • In Middle English, it appeared as 'vehement', reflecting a struggle or shout of feeling.
  • It has retained its meaning related to forcefulness and passion throughout its evolution.

The word 'vehemence' comes from the Latin term 'vehemens', which means 'violent' or 'impetuous'. It is derived from the root 'vehere', meaning 'to carry' or 'to move'. The evolution of the word through the ages reflects the dynamic nature of human emotions and the way language captures intense feelings. The earliest uses of 'vehemence' in English date back to the 15th century, where it signified a sense of strong emotional expression or agitation. Over time, it has come to encompass not only strong feelings of anger but also fervor in contexts of enthusiasm and passion. The versatility of the term allows it to be applied in various scenarios, from political discourse to personal expressions of feelings.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,209, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.