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Wallowing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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wallowing

[หˆwษ‘หloสŠษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

emotionally indulging

Wallowing refers to the act of indulging in a particular emotion or state, often to an excessive degree. It typically involves immersing oneself in feelings of sadness, self-pity, or pleasure without taking proactive steps to improve oneโ€™s situation.

Synonyms

immerging, indulging, sinking, soaking.

Examples of usage

  • She was wallowing in her grief after the loss.
  • He tends to wallow in nostalgia whenever he visits his hometown.
  • Instead of moving on, he kept wallowing in regret.
Context #2 | Verb

physical action

Wallowing can also refer to the act of rolling about or lying in a muddy or watery area. This behavior is often seen in animals, such as pigs, as a way to cool down or protect themselves from pests.

Synonyms

basking, logrolling, rolling.

Examples of usage

  • The pigs were wallowing in the mud to stay cool.
  • He watched the dogs wallowing happily in the lake.
  • She found joy in wallowing on the beach during summer.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • In psychology, wallowing can be seen as a way to process emotions, but too much can lead to unhealthy mental states.
  • Research suggests that allowing oneself to wallow briefly in sadness can actually help in moving forward, as it helps in understanding feelings.

Literature

  • Wallowing is often depicted in literature as a character's way of showing emotional depth or struggle, enhancing the reader's connection to their plight.
  • Famous characters in novels have wallowed in their emotions, reflecting the human experience of grief, love, or despair.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, protagonists often wallow in their sadness before discovering something that ultimately lifts them up, emphasizing the journey through pain.
  • Songs frequently touch on themes of wallowing in heartbreak, resonating with listeners who relate to feeling down.

Animal Behavior

  • Many animals, like pigs and hippos, wallow in mud to cool off and protect their skin from sunburn and parasites, showing a natural form of self-care.
  • Wallowing behaviors in animals can signify comfort and security, as they immerse themselves in environments that feel safe.

Origin of 'wallowing'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'wallowing' comes from the Old English term 'walwian,' meaning to roll or tumble, which connects to its sense of being immersed or deeply engaged.
  • Wallowing is related to 'wallow,' which historically referred to animals rolling in dust or mud, emphasizing the act of indulgence in feelings.

The word 'wallow' has Old English origins, deriving from the word 'walwian,' which means to roll or wallow. The concept has been present in various languages, often associated with the natural behaviors of animals and their interactions with mud or water. Historically, 'wallow' was used to describe the actions of certain animals, particularly livestock, as they sought comfort or relief from heat and insects. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass emotional states, particularly negativity, where individuals may figuratively wallow in their misfortunes or discomforts. The dual meaning of 'wallow' emphasizes both the physical and emotional dimensions of the experience, illustrating how one can become enveloped in either external substances or internal emotions.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,876, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.