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Wildness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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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?

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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?

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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.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'wildness'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'wildness' originated from the Old English word 'wilerness' which means 'a wild or uncultivated state'. Over time, it evolved to become 'wildness' in Middle English, retaining its essence of being untamed or uncontrolled. The concept of wildness has been explored in various literary works and philosophical discussions, highlighting the tension between civilization and the natural world.

See also: wild, wildcat, wilderness, wildlife, wildly, wilds.

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.