Waddled: meaning, definitions and examples
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waddled
[ˈwɒdld ]
Definition
walking awkwardly
Waddled is the past tense of the verb 'waddle', which refers to a type of walking that involves an unsteady or swaying motion, often associated with certain animals like ducks and penguins. This manner of walking typically involves short steps and a swaying motion of the hips, making the movement appear somewhat clumsy or funny. It can also describe humans, especially when they are burdened or balancing something awkwardly. The term paints a vivid picture of an endearing, albeit comical, mode of locomotion.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The duck waddled across the road.
- She waddled back to her seat after the fitness class.
- The baby waddled toward his mother with arms outstretched.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'waddle' comes from the Old English 'wadol', which means to walk with a swaying motion.
- It has been used in the English language since the 15th century, showing how long people have recognized this funny way of walking.
- Waddling is often associated with certain animals, particularly those with short legs.
Animal Behavior
- Many birds, like ducks and penguins, waddle because their body shapes are built for it, making it easy to keep their balance.
- Waddling helps animals with a lower center of gravity move around efficiently, especially when they are on land.
- Some researchers believe that waddling may even help conserve energy for these types of birds when walking long distances.
Pop Culture
- In animated films, waddling is often used to make characters appear cute or clumsy, like in movies featuring penguins.
- The famous children's song 'Five Little Ducks' uses the imagery of waddling to engage children while teaching them about counting.
- Waddling is often mimicked in dance or comedic routines, showcasing its humorous and endearing quality.
Psychology
- Watching animals waddle can trigger feelings of happiness or amusement in humans, as it's linked to perceptions of cuteness.
- Studies suggest that people's reactions to waddling animals may activate their brain's reward centers, releasing feel-good hormones.
- Waddling has become a popular theme in children's literature, as it often represents childhood innocence and playfulness.
Literature
- Waddling animals often appear in children's stories, symbolizing whimsy and adventure, such as in tales about playful penguins.
- Poets and authors use the term to evoke imagery of lightheartedness and joy in their narratives, enhancing the reading experience.
- The motion of waddling has been described in various literary works to capture the silliness of certain characters.
Translations
Translations of the word "waddled" in other languages:
🇵🇹 andar de forma desajeitada
🇮🇳 लड़खड़ाते हुए चलना
🇩🇪 watscheln
🇮🇩 berjalan terseok-seok
🇺🇦 кульгати
🇵🇱 chodzić chwiejnym krokiem
🇯🇵 よちよち歩く
🇫🇷 marcher en se dandinant
🇪🇸 caminar tambaleándose
🇹🇷 dönerek yürümek
🇰🇷 비틀거리며 걷다
🇸🇦 يمشي ببطء متمايلًا
🇨🇿 vrávorat
🇸🇰 kolísať sa
🇨🇳 摇摆着走
🇸🇮 zibati se
🇮🇸 skakka sér
🇰🇿 шалқайып жүру
🇬🇪 სიცოცლედ სიარული
🇦🇿 yırğalanaraq getmək
🇲🇽 caminar tambaleándose