How Do You Spell HEMMED IN?

Pronunciation: [hˈɛmd ˈɪn] (IPA)

The phrase "hemmed in" means to be surrounded or encircled, and its spelling can be a bit tricky for non-native English speakers. The first word, "hemmed," is spelled with a silent "h" and pronounced as "emd" /ɛmd/. The second word, "in," is pronounced as "in" /ɪn/. Together, the phrase is pronounced as "emd in" /ɛmd ɪn/. This phrase is commonly used in descriptions of feeling trapped or restricted, such as feeling "hemmed in" by responsibilities or circumstances.

HEMMED IN Meaning and Definition

  1. The phrase "hemmed in" refers to a situation in which someone feels confined or restricted, having little room for movement or maneuverability. It typically suggests a feeling of being encircled or trapped within boundaries that limit one's options or freedom. The term can be used both in a physical and metaphorical sense.

    In a physical sense, "hemmed in" implies being surrounded or enclosed by physical obstructions, such as walls, buildings, or other forms of physical barriers. This can evoke a sense of confinement or being boxed in, as if there are no escape routes or opportunities for expansion.

    Metaphorically, "hemmed in" conveys a state of being mentally or emotionally constrained. It can describe a situation in which a person feels restricted by external circumstances or societal expectations, limiting their choices or possibilities. This can manifest in the form of feeling trapped in a job, relationship, or life situation that offers little flexibility or room for personal growth.

    Moreover, the phrase can also imply being overwhelmed or overburdened by responsibilities, obligations, or circumstances that leave one with little time or energy to pursue their own interests or aspirations. It can evoke a sense of being surrounded by demands or challenges on all sides, making it difficult to find a way out or make progress.

    Overall, "hemmed in" conveys a sense of confinement, restriction, or limitation, whether in a physical, mental, or emotional context.

Common Misspellings for HEMMED IN

  • hammed in
  • gemmed in
  • bemmed in
  • nemmed in
  • jemmed in
  • uemmed in
  • yemmed in
  • hwmmed in
  • hsmmed in
  • hdmmed in
  • hrmmed in
  • h4mmed in
  • h3mmed in
  • henmed in
  • hekmed in
  • hejmed in
  • hemned in
  • hemked in
  • hemjed in
  • hemmwd in

Etymology of HEMMED IN

The phrase "hemmed in" originated from the combination of two words: "hem" and "in".

The term "hem" traces its roots back to the Old English word "hemmian", which meant "to surround" or "to enclose". It eventually evolved into the Middle English word "hemmen", with the same meanings. Over time, "hem" also began to be used in the sense of sewing or stitching, referring to the bordering of fabric edges.

The preposition "in", used here as an adverbial particle, indicates being contained or restricted within something.

Therefore, when these two words are combined, "hemmed in" came to describe a situation where someone or something is enclosed or confined by surrounding obstacles, being figuratively "hemmed" by boundaries.

Similar spelling words for HEMMED IN

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