Vengeance Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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vengeance

[หˆvษ›nยทdส’ษ™ns ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

seeking revenge

Vengeance is the act of taking revenge in retaliation for a wrong that has been done. It is often fueled by a desire for justice or retribution.

Synonyms

reprisal, retaliation, revenge.

Examples of usage

  • He swore vengeance against those who had wronged him.
  • She sought vengeance for the murder of her family.
Context #2 | Noun

strong desire for revenge

Vengeance can also refer to a strong feeling or desire for revenge, often accompanied by a sense of anger or betrayal.

Synonyms

avenging, retribution, vindication.

Examples of usage

  • The character's heart was consumed by vengeance.
  • She was blinded by her thirst for vengeance.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Vengeance is a central theme in many famous works, like Shakespeare's 'Hamlet', where the protagonist seeks to avenge his father's murder.
  • In 'Moby Dick', Captain Ahab's quest for revenge against the whale symbolizes the destructive nature of vengeance.
  • Many ancient Greek tragedies, such as 'The Oresteia', explore vengeance and its consequences through characters who seek retribution.

Pop Culture

  • The concept of vengeance often appears in films, such as 'Kill Bill', where the main character embarks on a journey of revenge.
  • Video games, like 'God of War', focus on themes of vengeance, where characters seek to right great wrongs done to them and their families.
  • In comics, characters like Batman often seek vengeance for the death of loved ones, showcasing the complicated nature of justice and retribution.

Psychology

  • Research shows that feelings of vengeance can stem from deep-seated feelings of injustice or hurt, affecting mental health.
  • Studies indicate that while vengeance may temporarily feel satisfying, it often leads to long-term regrets and unresolved emotional issues.
  • Forgiveness is suggested as a healthier alternative, helping individuals to let go of the desire for vengeance and promote emotional well-being.

History

  • Throughout history, many societies have established honor codes involving vengeance as a way to restore personal and family honor.
  • The concept of vendetta, particularly in Italian culture, describes a long-standing cycle of revenge between families or clans.
  • Historical conflicts, such as feuds between the Montagues and Capulets in 'Romeo and Juliet', illustrate how vengeance can perpetuate violence through generations.

Origin of 'vengeance'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'vengeance' comes from the Old French 'vengeance', which means 'retribution'.
  • Its roots can be traced back to the Latin word 'vindicare', meaning 'to claim' or 'to punish'.
  • The term has been in use since the Middle Ages, evolving to describe more intense forms of retribution.

The word 'vengeance' originated from Old French 'vengeance' and Latin 'vindicare', meaning 'to avenge'. The concept of seeking revenge has been present in human history for centuries, often associated with notions of justice, honor, and retribution.


Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,369 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.