Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Yoked Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🐂
Add to dictionary

yoked

[joʊkt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

joined together

The term 'yoked' is derived from the word 'yoke', which refers to a wooden beam used between a pair of oxen or other animals for pulling a plow or cart. When something is yoked, it means that it is bound or joined together in a way that requires cooperation or teamwork. It often describes a relationship where parties are linked closely, either physically or metaphorically. In a more abstract sense, it can refer to the burden of shared responsibilities or obligations. The concept evokes images of unity and collaboration.

Synonyms

attached, bound, coupled, joined, linked.

Examples of usage

  • The two animals were yoked together to plow the field.
  • In the project, the teams were yoked to achieve a common goal.
  • The couple felt yoked by their joint commitments.
  • The old-fashioned cart was yoked to a pair of strong horses.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, the concept of being 'yoked' extends to relationships, symbolizing unity and shared responsibilities.
  • Religious texts often use the metaphor of being 'yoked' to describe the partnership between a person and their beliefs.
  • Folklore in various cultures emphasizes the strength of two becoming one, often illustrated through stories of heroic duos.

Literature

  • In classical literature, characters often face trials that test their connection, drawing parallels to the idea of being yoke-bound in resolve.
  • Famous poets use the term as a metaphor for relationships, suggesting that love can create bonds that are both nurturing and challenging.
  • Novels that explore themes of partnership frequently depict characters who are 'yoked' together in their journeys, highlighting their interdependence.

Psychology

  • Being 'yoked' can symbolize the psychological phenomenon of co-dependence, where individuals rely heavily on each other.
  • Therapeutic frameworks sometimes use the concept to discuss healthy relationships versus those that are overly dependent.
  • The idea of shared burdens reflects in psychological studies emphasizing teamwork and collaboration in personal growth.

Animal Behavior

  • In animal husbandry, working animals are often yoked together to enhance efficiency and productivity in tasks.
  • Research shows that animals working in pairs can exhibit coordinated movements and greater overall performance.
  • The social dynamics among yoked animals can reveal insights about cooperation and communication within species.

Origin of 'yoked'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'yoked' comes from the Old English 'gēoc,' which meant to bind or join.
  • Its roots in Anglo-Saxon culture signify the importance of teamwork in farming, where animals worked together to plow fields.
  • The use of 'yoke' dates back to ancient agriculture, symbolizing strength in partnership.

The word 'yoke' comes from the Old English 'geoc', which means a joining or coupling, especially of animals. Its roots can be traced back through Proto-Germanic, where the word 'jukō' was used, and further back to Proto-Indo-European *yug-, which means to join or unite. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass not just the literal yoke used in farming but also figurative uses in literature and everyday language, where it represents any form of binding or connections, such as partnerships or mutual responsibilities.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,132, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.