Wallowed - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

past tense

Wallowed is the past tense of the verb 'wallow', which means to roll about or lie relaxed in a particular place. It can refer to animals, especially pigs, rolling in mud or water for comfort or to cool off. The term can also describe a person indulging in something, like emotions or sensations, often to an excessive degree. Wallowed can imply a state of inertia in which one may revel in their circumstances rather than seeking change.

Synonyms

immersed, indulged, revelled, rolled.

Examples of usage

The pig wallowed in the mud to stay cool.
After the breakup, she wallowed in her sorrow for days.
He wallowed in self-pity instead of moving forward.
They wallowed in the warm waters of the hot spring.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

In psychology, wallowing can be seen as a way to process emotions, especially sadness or grief, providing a space to feel and reflect.
Some studies suggest that short periods of wallowing can help people deal with their emotions better, as it allows for acknowledgment before moving on.
Excessive wallowing, however, may keep individuals stuck in negative emotions, making it important to find balance.

Literature

In literary contexts, characters often wallow in their struggles, which adds depth to their emotional journey and realism to their experiences.
Famous authors, like Charles Dickens, frequently depicted characters that wallow in misery, showcasing societal ills and personal woes.
Wallowing can also be a metaphor for self-indulgence, often critiqued in works highlighting moral dilemmas.

Pop Culture

Songs often express themes of wallowing in heartbreak, helping listeners connect with feelings of sadness or nostalgia.
Television shows frequently depict characters wallowing after breakups, making it relatable for audiences and often instigating personal reflections.
The phrase 'wallow in self-pity' has become popular in memes and discussions, embodying a humorous take on feeling sorry for oneself.

Animal Behavior

In the animal kingdom, many species, like hippos, wallow in mud to protect their skin from sunburn and insect bites – it's a survival behavior.
Wallowing can also serve social functions among animals, as they bond during communal wallowing events, reinforcing social structures.
Some animals use wallowing as a form of play, showcasing joy and relaxation, which is vital for their mental health.

Origin of 'wallowed'

Main points about word origin

The word 'wallow' comes from the Old English 'walwian,' which means to roll or move about.
Originally, it referred to animals rolling in mud or dust to cool off or keep bugs away, showing a close connection to nature.
The term has evolved to describe emotional states, illustrating how language grows with culture.

The word 'wallow' originates from the Old English term 'wealwian', which means to roll or to wallow in. This is further traced back to Proto-West Germanic '*walwōną', indicating similar connotations of rolling or moving about clumsily. The use of the term has evolved over time, often associated with animals, particularly in reference to their behavior in mud or water, which provides relief from parasites and heat. By the 14th century, 'wallow' began to take on additional meanings, extending to human experiences and emotions, implying a yield to negative feelings or circumstances, thus enriching its connotative depth. Today, 'wallowed' captures both the literal and metaphorical essence of indulging in a state or condition, with roots steeped in the physicality of movement through various substances.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,453 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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32450 ergosterol
32451 freelancers
32452 gossiped
32453 wallowed
32454 deactivate
32455 salver
32456 toffee
...

Wallowed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations