henpecked
/'henpekt/
Definition
Adjective: - Harassed by persistent nagging: Describes a person, typically a man, who is constantly criticized, dominated, or nagged by his wife or female partner.
Usage
The word "henpecked" is used to describe a man who is perceived as weak or submissive in his relationship, as he yields to the frequent complaints, demands, or criticisms of his partner. It often carries a humorous or mildly derogatory tone.
Examples
- Adjective:
- Everyone knew him as a henpecked husband who had to ask his wife for permission to go out with friends.
- The comedy show often features a henpecked character who is always trying to avoid his wife's scolding.
Advanced Usage
- Cultural Connotation: The term is based on the stereotype of a hen (female chicken) pecking at a rooster. Its usage is often considered old-fashioned and can be seen as reinforcing negative gender stereotypes about domineering wives and passive husbands. Modern usage may be critical of this stereotype.
Variants and Related Words
- Henpeck (verb): To dominate or nag one's husband persistently.
- She has a tendency to henpeck him about every little household chore.
Synonyms
- Domineered over
- Nagged
- Under the thumb (idiomatic)
- Whipped (slang)
Antonyms
- Dominant
- Assertive
- The boss (informal)
Related Idioms
- "To be under someone's thumb": To be completely controlled by someone.
- He's completely under his wife's thumb and never makes a decision without her.
- "To wear the pants/trousers in the family": To be the dominant partner in a relationship. (Often used in the negative for a henpecked person: )
Adjective
-
harassed by persistent nagging
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