Wallop Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Pop Culture

• In the 1968 film 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,' 'wallop' is used to describe a fun and loud impact, contributing to its playful tone.
• The phrase 'give it a wallop' is often used in sports commentary, indicating a powerful hit in games like baseball or boxing.
• The American rock band 'Wallop' embodies the term by emphasizing energetic performances and impactful music.

Literature

• In James Joyce's work, the term is occasionally utilized to describe sudden impacts or emotional awakenings.
• Many children’s books use the term humorously when describing comedic misadventures or physical humor, making it relatable and engaging.
• Wallop appears in Roald Dahl’s stories, adding a punchy quality to his characters’ actions.

Historical Usage

• During World War II, pilots used the term 'wallop' to describe a strong blow experienced during dogfights.
• Historical records show that in the 19th century, the word was employed in English boxing, denoting a significant punch.
• In early 20th-century America, 'wallop' was popularized in slang, often used in sports contexts to depict strong actions.

Psychology

• The concept of a 'wallop' can evoke feelings of surprise or shock, as our brain often connects physical impact with sudden emotional responses.
• When people recount stories involving a 'wallop,' they often feel a rush of adrenaline, reflecting the intense feelings associated with unexpected events.
• Reactions to 'wallops'—whether physical or metaphorical—can trigger fight or flight responses, showcasing our instinctual reactions to strong impacts.

Main points about word origin

• The term 'wallop' comes from the 18th-century English slang, initially meaning to strike or hit.
• It may also be derived from the Old English term 'wyllinge,' which means to strike or blow.
• Over the years, 'wallop' evolved to not just mean a hit but can also refer to strong impact in various contexts.

The word 'wallop' originated in the early 20th century as a colloquial term in American English. Its roots can be traced to the dialectal English word 'wallop', which means to strike or hit. Some linguists believe it may be related to the English dialect 'wollop', which also signifies a strong impact or blow. The term gained popularity through its frequent use in sports and casual conversation, often to describe forceful strikes. Over the years, 'wallop' has maintained its informal connotation, frequently appearing in discussions about fighting, sports, and playful engagement, showing its versatility in various contexts.

This word's position of #33,728 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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• 33725 harmlessness
• 33726 mantissa
• 33727 fritter
• 33728 wallop
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• 33730 bobwhite
• 33731 unstinting
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