winged word: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘winged word’ mean?

The idiom "winged word" refers to a spoken or written statement that quickly and effortlessly travels from one person to another, often resulting in rumors or gossip spreading rapidly.

Idiom Explorer

Decoding Winged Expressions

In Greek mythology, Hermes is often depicted as wearing winged sandals or having wings on his helmet, which symbolize his role as the messenger of the gods. As a messenger, Hermes was known for his swiftness and ability to travel swiftly, hence the association with wings. The idiom "winged word" draws on this symbolism to refer to a spoken or written statement that is powerful, influential, or capable of having a lasting impact. It implies that words, like Hermes with his wings, have the ability to transcend physical boundaries and carry great weight.

This idiom is often used to emphasize the potential consequences of what is being communicated. It serves as a reminder that words have the power to shape perceptions, evoke emotions, and shape the course of events. It reflects the human fascination with language and the endless possibilities it presents. The idiom "get wind in one's jaws" captures a similar idea of the power of communication.

"Get wind in one's jaws" is an idiomatic expression that means to speak or gossip about something or someone without having all the facts or accurate information. It suggests that when someone gets wind in their jaws, they become overly eager to share information without considering its veracity. This idiom highlights the potential harm that can be caused by spreading rumors or engaging in gossip. It reminds us to be cautious and responsible in our communication.

The word

The idiom "rumor campaign" is another phrase that relates to the concept of communication and its impact. A rumor campaign refers to a deliberate effort to spread false or misleading information about someone or something. It is often used in the context of politics or public relations to damage the reputation of a person or organization. This idiom underscores the power of rumors and the potential harm they can cause when used as a strategic communication tool.

"send word" is yet another idiom that is closely related to the power of communication. It means to relay or communicate information to someone. This phrase highlights the role of communication in sharing news, updates, or instructions. It implies the importance of timely and accurate information exchange for effective coordination and collaboration.

The idiom "wicked tongue" is a phrase that conveys the potential harm that can be caused by unkind or hurtful words. It refers to someone who speaks in a malicious or hurtful manner, often causing emotional pain or distress to others. This idiom serves as a reminder of the impact our words can have on individuals and the importance of using language responsibly and compassionately.

Overall, these idioms - "get wind in one's jaws," "rumor campaign," "send word," and "wicked tongue" - highlight different aspects of the power of language and its potential consequences. They remind us to be mindful of how we communicate, to consider the impact of our words, and to use language responsibly. Just as Hermes with his wings delivers messages swiftly and with great impact, our words have the power to shape perceptions, evoke emotions, and influence the course of events.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom "winged word" can be used in a sentence:

  1. "He delivered a winged word that left everyone speechless."
  2. "She whispered a winged word of advice in his ear before the competition."
  3. "The politician's winged words garnered support from the crowd."

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