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Whodunnit Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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whodunnit

[hwuːˈdʌnɪt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

mystery genre

A whodunnit is a type of narrative or literary work that revolves around a crime; typically a murder, and the events that unfold as characters attempt to solve it. The term focuses on the mystery of the identity of the perpetrator, creating intrigue and suspense for the reader or audience. Often, whodunnits are characterized by their complex plots, misdirection, and clues that lead to the resolution of the mystery. They have been popularized through novels, films, and television series, engaging audiences in guessing the identity of the culprit before it is revealed.

Synonyms

crime fiction, detective story, mystery.

Examples of usage

  • I love reading a good whodunnit novel.
  • The film was a classic whodunnit with lots of twists.
  • She enjoys writing whodunnits full of red herrings.
  • The board game is based on a whodunnit theme.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Agatha Christie is one of the most famous authors of whodunnits, with her book 'And Then There Were None' being a classic example.
  • Many famous whodunnit novels feature a detective, a group of suspects, and a twist ending that reveals the culprit.
  • This genre often plays with the reader's expectations, using red herrings to mislead and surprise.

Film & Television

  • The whodunnit genre has inspired countless films, including 'Murder on the Orient Express', which brings together a star-studded cast of suspects.
  • Television shows like 'Midsomer Murders' and 'Columbo' focus on unraveling crimes, engaging audiences in the mystery-solving process.
  • Innovative whodunnits like 'Knives Out' blend fresh storytelling with classic elements, reinvigorating the genre for modern viewers.

Games

  • Whodunnit games like 'Clue' challenge players to deduce who committed the crime, where, and with what weapon.
  • Interactive murder mystery events allow participants to role-play detectives, adding a fun twist to social gatherings.
  • Online whodunnit-themed escape rooms have become popular, where teams work together to solve clues and mysteries.

Psychology

  • The appeal of whodunnits lies in their ability to engage critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Solving mysteries can create a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment, tapping into our natural curiosity.
  • Engaging with whodunnits can provide an emotional escape, allowing readers and viewers to immerse themselves in thrilling, often dangerous scenarios.

Origin of 'whodunnit'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'whodunnit' is a blend of 'who' and 'done it', first used in the early 20th century.
  • It became popular in the 1920s, especially with the rise of detective fiction.
  • The phrase captures the essence of mystery tales, inviting readers to solve the puzzle alongside the characters.

The term 'whodunnit' originated from a blend of American English and detective fiction literature that became popular in the early 20th century. The word itself is a contraction of 'who done it?', which is often heard in popular crime-related narratives. The genre gained prominence with the publication of mystery novels, particularly those by authors like Agatha Christie, whose works featured intricate plots and clever resolutions. The phrase encapsulates the essence of detective stories where the central question revolves around the identity of the criminal. Over time, 'whodunnit' has not only described literary works but has also extended into film and television, influencing the development of mystery narratives across multiple platforms.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,789, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.