The spelling of the word "hairy heart" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription. The initial sound of "h" is pronounced as /h/, followed by the long "a" sound, represented as /eə/. The word "hairy" also has a silent "i" in the middle, which is represented as /ɪ/. Finally, the word "heart" is pronounced with a silent "e" at the end, while the "a" sound is represented as /ɑː/. Therefore, the phonetic transcription for "hairy heart" is /ˈhɛərɪ hɑːt/.
Hairy heart is a figurative term used to describe a condition characterized by extreme sensitivity or vulnerability underneath a tough or unemotional exterior. The term is often used to refer to individuals who may appear tough or strong on the outside, but who possess a tender and sensitive emotional nature within.
The "hairy" aspect of this term alludes to the idea of having hair on the heart, which is an anatomically incorrect notion but works metaphorically. Hair is generally associated with softness and sensitivity, so the term suggests that the person’s heart is covered with a protective layer that conceals their emotional fragility.
Individuals with a hairy heart may present themselves as strong and invulnerable, wearing a metaphorical armor to shield themselves from emotional pain or vulnerability. They may be hesitant to reveal their true emotions and may seem emotionally distant or closed off.
This term is often used to describe someone who puts on a tough persona to protect themselves from being hurt, or perhaps someone who has developed emotional walls due to past traumatic experiences. It suggests that beneath their hardened exterior, they harbor deep emotions and sensitivities.
The concept of a hairy heart serves as a reminder not to judge others solely based on their outer appearances or behaviors, as there may be hidden depths of vulnerability that remain unseen.
Pericarditis in which the heart is seen post mortem to be covered with a shaggy, fibrinous exudate; cor hirsutum, cor tomentosum, trichocardia, shaggy pericardium.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.