Weaseled - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

deception, avoidance

To 'weasel' means to act in a sneaky or evasive manner to avoid responsibility or to escape from a difficult situation. This term often implies dishonesty or manipulation, where a person might twist their words or evade a straightforward answer. The act of weaseling often leads to frustration from others, as it disrupts clear communication. It can describe a person who is quick to retract statements or deny commitments when questioned.

Synonyms

duck, evade, shirk, sneak, wiggle.

Examples of usage

He weaseled out of his promise to help.
She weaseled her way through the conversation without revealing the truth.
During the debate, he weaseled when asked about his plans.
You can’t just weasel out of the consequences.
The politician weaseled when confronted about his past actions.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

The word 'weasel' has been used in various movies and TV shows to describe deceitful characters.
In comic books, weasels are often depicted as the tricksters, showcasing their sneaky nature.
The phrase 'weaseling out of something' has appeared in common dialogue, indicating its deep integration into cultural references.

Psychology

People who weasel out of commitments often demonstrate high levels of social anxiety, fearing confrontation.
Avoidance behaviors like weaseling are linked to cognitive dissonance, where individuals prefer to escape uncomfortable truths.
Research suggests that weaseling might be a defense mechanism, allowing individuals to protect their self-image.

Literature

Weaseling has been explored in numerous literary works, representing characters who manipulate others to achieve their goals.
Classic novels often portray weasel-like characters as antagonists, revealing moral lessons about honesty and integrity.
The character of the weasel often embodies the traits of charm and deceit, providing rich material for conflict in storytelling.

Language and Usage

The phrase 'weaseling out of a promise' is commonly used in speech to describe someone backing out of an obligation.
In formal communication, weaseling is often viewed negatively, signaling a lack of transparency or sincerity.
The versatility of the word allows it to be applied in various contexts, from daily conversation to legal debates.

Origin of 'weaseled'

Main points about word origin

The term comes from an old English word possibly derived from 'weasel', a small animal known for being cunning.
Using 'weaseled' as a verb to indicate deceitful behavior dates back to the early 20th century.
In other languages, similar phrases exist that imply cleverness or trickiness, highlighting a universal concept of avoiding directness.

The term 'weasel' as a verb originates from the late 19th century. It evolved from the literal association with the weasel animal, which is known for its cunning and stealthy behavior. The term reflects how weasels escape from traps or difficult situations, analogous to a person evading accountability or responsibility. Initially, it was common in American slang, and over time, it found its way into more formal English usage. The imagery of the weasel has persisted, emphasizing the idea of craftiness and slipperiness, making it a fitting metaphor for deceptive behaviors in human interactions. Today, 'weaseling' retains a colloquial tone and is often used in informal contexts, especially in discussions involving ethics, honesty, or accountability.

Weaseled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations