SHRANK BACK Meaning and
Definition
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"Shrank back" is a phrasal verb that formulates an action of retracting or recoiling due to fear, hesitancy, or aversion. It describes the act of physically moving away or drawing oneself backward from a certain situation or stimulus that is perceived as unpleasant, threatening, or undesirable. The verb "shrank" is the simple past tense of "shrink," meaning to draw back, contract, or diminish in size or extent.
When someone "shrank back," it implies a reaction characterized by a sudden movement or pulling away, often accompanied by a visible or palpable display of reluctance, trepidation, or apprehension. It suggests a retreat or withdrawal, both physically and emotionally, from an imminent or perceived threat or discomfort.
Common scenarios that may elicit such a reaction include encountering a dangerous person or animal, facing a challenging task or responsibility, approaching a disturbing or unfamiliar situation, or experiencing intense pain or discomfort. The act of shrinking back generally signifies a self-protective mechanism, a reflexive response to preserve one's well-being or sense of security.
Furthermore, "shrank back" is also figuratively used to describe a psychological or emotional withdrawal, where an individual refrains from expressing their thoughts, desires, or opinions due to an apprehension of how others might react or judge them. It conveys a sense of reservation, timidity, or inhibition, reflecting an individual's inner hesitation or self-doubt.
Common Misspellings for SHRANK BACK
- shronk back
- shreink back
- ahrank back
- zhrank back
- xhrank back
- dhrank back
- ehrank back
- whrank back
- sgrank back
- sbrank back
- snrank back
- sjrank back
- surank back
- syrank back
- sheank back
- shdank back
- shfank back
- shtank back
- sh5ank back
- sh4ank back
Etymology of SHRANK BACK
The word "shrank back" can be broken down into two parts: "shrank" and "back".
The verb "shrank" is the past tense of the verb "shrink". It comes from the Old English word "scrincan", which means "to draw in, wither, shrivel". This Old English word is believed to have been derived from the Proto-Germanic word "skrinkwanan", meaning "to shrink, contract".
The word "back" is derived from the Middle English word "bak", which originally meant "the rear, behind" and can be traced back to the Old English word "bæc". This Old English word has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word "*bakam", which also means "back".
Similar spelling word for SHRANK BACK
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