How Do You Spell HENPECKED?

Pronunciation: [hˈɛnpɛkt] (IPA)

The word "henpecked" is spelled with an "n" and not an "m". The phonetic transcription for this word is /ˈhɛnpɛkt/. The first syllable is pronounced with an "e" sound as in "he", followed by an "n" sound. The second syllable has a short "e" sound like in "pet". The "ck" at the end is pronounced like "k". This word means that a man is excessively controlled or nagged by his wife or female partner, showing the gendered nature of this term.

HENPECKED Meaning and Definition

1. Henpecked is an adjective used to describe a person, typically a man, who is dominated, controlled, or constantly harassed by their spouse, usually a woman. This term originates from the practice of hen-pecking, where a hen uses its beak to peck persistently and dominate over other hens. In the context of human relationships, it implies a similar dynamic in which the dominant partner continuously criticizes, nags, or dictates the actions of the submissive partner.

   A henpecked individual may often find themselves in a subordinate position, lacking the freedom to make decisions or assert their own opinions. This dynamic is commonly associated with a lack of personal autonomy and the suppression of individual willpower. Henpecked individuals may feel emasculated or powerless due to their spouse's constant intrusions or by playing out traditional gender roles within a relationship.

   The term "henpecked" has garnered negative connotations over time, portraying the submissive partner as weak or easily overpowered. It highlights an inequitable balance of power within the relationship, suggesting that the dominant partner has an unhealthy level of control or that the submissive partner lacks the assertiveness to establish their own boundaries.

   Despite its origin, henpecking can occur in any relationship, regardless of gender. It highlights the harmful effects of an unbalanced power dynamic, emphasizing the need for open communication, mutual respect, and shared decision-making within a healthy and equitable partnership.

2. Governed by the wife.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for HENPECKED

• hepicked
• genpecked
• benpecked
• nenpecked
• jenpecked
• uenpecked
• yenpecked
• hwnpecked
• hsnpecked
• hdnpecked
• hrnpecked
• h4npecked
• h3npecked
• hebpecked
• hempecked
• hejpecked
• hehpecked
• henpeked
• henpecke
• henpekced
• henpekked
• henpeaked
• Henspecked
• Henpekecd
• Henpicked
• Henpeached

Etymology of HENPECKED

The term "henpecked" originates from the combination of two words: "hen" and "peck".

"Hen" refers to a female chicken, while "peck" means to strike with a beak. When a hen pecks at something, it usually implies that she is nagging or constantly bothering.

The term "henpecked" was initially used to describe male chickens that were relentlessly pecked or bullied by dominant females within a poultry flock. Over time, the term expanded its meaning and came to be used metaphorically to describe men who were dominated or controlled by their wives or female partners.

The derivative "henpecked" was first recorded in English during the early 17th century and has since become a common term in the language.

Idioms with the word HENPECKED

• henpecked The idiom "henpecked" refers to a man who is constantly criticized, dominated, or controlled by his wife or female partner.

Similar spelling words for HENPECKED

• hen-peck,
• unpacked.