CROCODILE TEAR Meaning and
Definition
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Crocodile tear, also known as crocodile tears, is a idiomatic expression used to describe an insincere or fake display of sympathy or compassion. The term originates from the ancient belief that crocodiles shed tears while consuming their prey, creating a deceptive appearance of sorrow or remorse.
Used metaphorically, crocodile tear refers to a person's feigned or artificial emotional response, typically done for personal gain or to manipulate others. It underscores the idea that the individual is not genuinely empathetic but only pretends to be so in order to deceive or manipulate others.
The phrase, often used in colloquial language or informal contexts, conveys the notion that the person shedding crocodile tears is attempting to appear sympathetic or compassionate while lacking true empathy or concern. It implies that their displayed emotions are insincere, superficial, and aimed at achieving selfish objectives.
Crocodile tear can be seen in various settings such as politics, relationships, or public scenarios. For instance, a politician shedding crocodile tears during a speech might be insincerely sympathizing with the public's grievances for political gain. Similarly, someone shedding crocodile tears in a personal relationship may be attempting to manipulate the other person's emotions to their advantage.
Overall, the expression "crocodile tear" serves as a figurative warning against trusting superficial displays of sympathy, reminding us to be cautious and discerning when evaluating the genuineness of someone's emotions.
Etymology of CROCODILE TEAR
The term "crocodile tear" originated from an ancient anecdote and has its roots in Latin and Greek. It comes from the belief that crocodiles shed tears while consuming or luring their prey.
In Latin, "lacrima" means "tear", and "lacrima crocodili" (tears of the crocodile) was first used by the naturalist and philosopher Pliny the Elder in his work "Natural History". He described how crocodiles would weep while devouring their victims, displaying a deceptive show of sorrow.
This idea also found its way into Greek mythology. The Greek philosopher and historian, Plutarch, wrote about the crocodile in his work "On the Cleverness of Animals". He described how crocodiles, having eaten, would appear to weep as a manifestation of their remorse.
