FALLING HEADLONG Meaning and
Definition
-
The phrase "falling headlong" refers to a sudden and uncontrollable descent, often associated with a lack of caution or deliberate planning. It typically describes an uncontrolled or impulsive action, where an individual or an object moves rapidly and without restraint in a downward direction. This term is commonly used to depict a sudden, reckless, or hasty downward movement, going beyond natural or expected limits.
Figuratively, "falling headlong" can be applied to various situations or circumstances beyond just physical descents. It can describe impetuous or rash decisions, actions, or choices made without careful consideration or forethought. When someone falls headlong into a situation, they are propelled forward without adequate preparation or evaluation of potential consequences.
This phrase can also be employed metaphorically to illustrate a person's intense emotional or psychological downward spiral. In this context, it signifies a dramatic decline or deterioration in one's mental or emotional state, almost akin to losing control and succumbing to despair.
The term "falling headlong" recognizes a sudden, uncontrolled descent in various domains of life. It juxtaposes a lack of caution or consideration with the consequences that follow, conveying the idea of a reckless or uninformed downward motion that may lead to unfavorable outcomes.
Common Misspellings for FALLING HEADLONG
- dalling headlong
- calling headlong
- valling headlong
- galling headlong
- talling headlong
- ralling headlong
- fzlling headlong
- fslling headlong
- fwlling headlong
- fqlling headlong
- fakling headlong
- fapling headlong
- faoling headlong
- falking headlong
- falping headlong
- faloing headlong
- fallung headlong
- falljng headlong
- fallkng headlong
- fallong headlong
Etymology of FALLING HEADLONG
The phrase "falling headlong" combines two words: "falling" and "headlong".
1. Falling: The word "fall" comes from the Old English word "feallan", which has Germanic roots. It has retained its similar form throughout many Germanic languages, such as German ("fallen"), Dutch ("vallen"), and Swedish ("falla"). The original meaning of "fall" is related to descending rapidly or dropping from a higher place to a lower one.
2. Headlong: The term "headlong" originated from the combination of two words: "head" and "long". "Head" comes from the Old English word "heafod", also with Germanic roots. It refers to the upper part of the body, specifically the skull. "Long" is derived from the Old English word "lang", which means "long" or "extended".
