CLIFFHANGER Meaning and
Definition
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A cliffhanger is a term used to describe a tense or suspenseful situation in which the outcome is uncertain and leaves the audience in anticipation for what will happen next. Derived from the notion of a protagonist literally hanging from a cliff, the term is commonly used in storytelling, particularly in literature, film, and television.
In literature, a cliffhanger typically occurs at the end of a chapter or section, leaving the readers in suspense and eager to continue reading to find out the resolution. It intentionally leaves important questions or conflicts unresolved, keeping the readers on the edge of their seats.
In film and television, a cliffhanger is often utilized as a narrative technique to conclude an episode or season, creating a compelling suspense that motivates viewers to tune in for the next installment. It frequently involves a sudden turn of events, a revelation, or the introduction of a new conflict that complicates the existing storyline.
The purpose of a cliffhanger is to create tension, excitement, and a desire for resolution within the audience. It heightens the emotional investment and engagement, as viewers or readers become eager to unravel the outcome or learn the resolution. Cliffhangers can be used effectively across various genres, such as thrillers, mysteries, dramas, and even comedies, keeping audiences captivated and eagerly awaiting the continuation of the story.
Top Common Misspellings for CLIFFHANGER *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for CLIFFHANGER
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- cpiffhanger
- coiffhanger
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- cloffhanger
- cl9ffhanger
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- cliffhangerr
- cleefhanger
Etymology of CLIFFHANGER
The word "cliffhanger" originated in the late 19th century, specifically in the world of serial fiction. The term comes from the practice of leaving a protagonist or a set of characters hanging perilously from a cliff at the end of an episode or installment, in order to create suspense and encourage audiences to return for the next installment. The earliest known usage of the word "cliffhanger" can be traced back to 1893, where it is found in the context of serialized literature. The name itself is a metaphorical combination of the terms "cliff" (a steep rock face) and "hanger" (a person or thing that hangs), highlighting the precarious situation the characters are left in, figuratively hanging from a cliff. Over time, the term has expanded beyond literature and is now used more broadly to describe any situation that leaves the outcome uncertain, thus creating suspense.
Idioms with the word CLIFFHANGER
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cliffhanger
A cliffhanger is a moment of suspense or uncertainty at the end of a chapter, episode, or story, leaving the reader or viewer in anticipation of what will happen next.
Similar spelling word for CLIFFHANGER
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