How Do You Spell DOUGHFACES?

Pronunciation: [dˈə͡ʊfe͡ɪsɪz] (IPA)

The term doughfaces is a variant of the word "doughface", which is a derogatory term used to describe people who are weak-willed and easily influenced. The word is pronounced as /doʊˌfeɪsɪz/, with the stress on the first syllable. The initial "dough" in the word derives from the idea that such people are pliable like dough, while the "faces" refers to their lack of a distinct persona. Although the term was initially applied to pro-slavery northern Democrats in the US, it has since come to refer to any pliable person.

DOUGHFACES Meaning and Definition

1. "Doughfaces" is a term used to describe individuals, specifically politicians, who lack strong principles or convictions and easily conform to the opinions or interests of others, especially those in power. It is a slang term derived from the combination of "dough" meaning pliable and malleable, and "face" referring to someone's countenance or expression, metaphorically implying a submissive or subservient nature.

   The term originated historically during the mid-19th century in the United States, primarily in the context of political debates surrounding slavery and sectionalism. It was commonly used to criticize northern politicians who, despite opposing slavery rhetorically or personally, adopted positions or policies that were favorable to the interests of southern slaveholding states in order to maintain peace and support compromise measures. These politicians were believed to lack genuine moral courage or a firm commitment to their convictions.

   Furthermore, "doughfaces" were often accused of prioritizing their personal ambitions, political careers, or maintaining their popularity over standing up for their beliefs or defending the principles they allegedly advocated. The term has since become more widely applicable beyond its historical context, referring to any individuals who demonstrate a tendency to put their own self-interests or political expediency before principled stances or standing up for what they believe in.

   In contemporary usage, "doughfaces" are perceived as weak or spineless individuals who lack the courage to take a decisive stand on important issues and instead yield to external pressures or influential figures, compromising their integrity and authenticity.

Common Misspellings for DOUGHFACES

• d oughfaces
• do ughfaces
• dou ghfaces
• doug hfaces
• doughf aces
• doughfa ces
• doughfac es
• doughface s

Etymology of DOUGHFACES

The term "doughfaces" originated in the 19th century in the United States. It is a combination of two words: "dough", which in this context refers to something soft and pliable, and "faces", referring to people.

The term was used to describe a group of politicians who were considered weak, indecisive, or easily influenced. Specifically, doughfaces were Northern Democrats who were sympathetic to the South's pro-slavery interests before and during the American Civil War. They were accused of having "soft" or "doughy" opinions, often flip-flopping on important issues related to slavery and state rights.

It is important to note that the term "doughfaces" is considered derogatory and is not commonly used in modern language. Its usage is mainly confined to historical discussions about the political climate leading up to the Civil War.