Wildness: meaning, definitions and examples

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wildness

[ˈwaɪldnəs ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in nature

The quality or state of being wild or untamed. Wildness can refer to the natural environment, animals, or behavior that is uncontrolled or unrestricted.

Synonyms

ferocity, savagery, untamedness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
wildness	Used to describe a state of being uncontrolled and natural, often relating to behavior, nature, or environments. The wildness of the forest attracted many tourists. She admired the wildness in his personality.
untamedness	Describes something that is not domesticated or controlled, often referring to animals, nature, or emotions. The untamedness of the wilderness was both thrilling and intimidating. His untamedness was seen in his unpredictable actions.
ferocity	Refers to extreme intensity or aggression, often in a confrontational or violent manner. The ferocity of the storm was unprecedented. The lion's ferocity in defending its territory was awe-inspiring.
savagery	Carries a negative connotation and is used to describe brutal, violent, or barbaric behavior. The savagery of the attack left the community in shock. Historical accounts often detail the savagery of ancient battles.

Examples of usage

The wildness of the forest was both beautiful and intimidating.
She felt a sense of freedom and excitement in the wildness of the open plains.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

behavior

The quality of being unpredictable or uncontrolled in one's actions or emotions. Wildness in behavior can be seen as reckless or impulsive.

Synonyms

impulsiveness, recklessness, unpredictability.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
wildness	This term is often used to describe an untamed, natural state, whether it's in nature, animals, or human behavior that's free from societal norms. The wildness of the jungle can be both beautiful and terrifying. Her wildness made her stand out in the strict, conservative classroom.
recklessness	Recklessness describes actions taken without regard for danger or the consequences. It often has a negative connotation and implies irresponsibility. Her recklessness on the road worried her friends and family. The decision to climb the mountain without proper gear was pure recklessness.
impulsiveness	Impulsiveness refers to acting quickly without thinking about the consequences. This word is commonly used to describe spontaneous or rash actions. His impulsiveness led him to buy a car he couldn't afford. Impulsiveness can sometimes lead to unexpected adventures.
unpredictability	Unpredictability is used when describing something or someone whose actions or outcomes cannot be easily anticipated. This can be used in both positive and negative contexts. The unpredictability of the weather makes it hard to plan outdoor events. His unpredictability keeps everyone on their toes.

Examples of usage

His wildness often got him into trouble with authority figures.
She was drawn to his spontaneity and wildness.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Old English 'wild', meaning 'not domesticated' or 'feral'.
Historically, 'wildness' has described both the natural world and fierce, uncontrollable behavior in humans.
The suffix '-ness' implies a state or quality, transforming 'wild' into the state of being wild.

Literature

In many classic novels, wildness portrays freedom and the struggle against societal constraints.
Writers like Henry David Thoreau in 'Walden' celebrated wildness as essential for personal and spiritual growth.
Poets often use wildness to evoke emotion and draw contrasts with the structured lives of civilization.

Cultural Significance

Many indigenous cultures view wildness as sacred, considering untouched nature interconnected with their spiritual beliefs.
The romantic movement of the 18th century glorified wildness, seeing it as a source of beauty and inspiration.
In environmental movements today, wildness represents the need to protect natural spaces from urban and industrial development.

Environmental Science

Wildness contributes to biodiversity, playing a critical role in healthy ecosystems and species survival.
Restoring wildness in landscapes can help combat climate change by enhancing carbon storage in forests and wild areas.
Research shows that people benefit psychologically and physically from time spent in wild, natural environments.

Psychology

The return to wildness is often associated with improved mental health, reducing stress and anxiety levels.
Embracing one's own wildness can be a path to authentic self-expression and personal growth.
Therapists sometimes encourage 'nature therapy', emphasizing the healing aspects of experiencing wild environments.

Translations

Translations of the word "wildness" in other languages:

🇵🇹 selvageria

🇮🇳 जंगलीपन

🇩🇪 Wildheit

🇮🇩 kebiadaban

🇺🇦 дикість

🇵🇱 dzikość

🇯🇵 野生

🇫🇷 sauvagerie

🇪🇸 salvajismo

🇹🇷 vahşilik

🇰🇷 야생성

🇸🇦 وحشية

🇨🇿 divokost

🇸🇰 divokosť

🇨🇳 野性

🇸🇮 divjost

🇮🇸 villimennska

🇰🇿 жабайылық

🇬🇪 ველურობა

🇦🇿 vəhşilik

🇲🇽 salvajismo

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,240, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

...
21237 despot
21238 intruding
21239 censored
21240 wildness
21241 thrombus
21242 stylus
21243 vomited
...