Wolfish: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Old English 'wulf,' meaning wolf, reflecting the animal’s traits in human behavior.
• It was used in English literature as early as the 14th century to describe men who were seen as ravenous or greedy.

Literature

• In literature, characters described as wolfish often embody cunning, trickery, or a predatory nature, making them compelling villains.
• The phrase 'wolfish smile' suggests a sly, dangerous charm often found in protagonists in dark fairy tales.

Pop Culture

• Movies and stories often portray wolfish characters as fierce and relentless, like the antagonists in 'The Three Little Pigs' or 'Little Red Riding Hood.'
• Modern usage can be seen in films and series where characters with wolfish traits signify cunning or ruthlessness, such as in 'Game of Thrones.'

Psychology

• Psychological studies sometimes associate wolfish behavior with traits like aggression or dominance in social situations.
• People displaying wolfish tendencies may be seen as charismatic in certain contexts, though often feared for their unpredictability.

Animal Behavior

• Wolves are social animals that hunt in packs, and the term wolfish can also reference behaviors that reflect assertiveness in competition for food.
• Understanding wolf behavior can shed light on the meanings behind the term, revealing how it parallels certain human interactions.

This word's position of #33,424 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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• 33421 malediction
• 33422 unplugged
• 33423 purchasable
• 33424 wolfish
• 33425 ribaldry
• 33426 popularise
• 33427 clacking
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