MORE YELLOWBELLIED Meaning and
Definition
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"More yellowbellied" is a phrase used to describe an individual or group that displays even greater cowardice or lack of courage compared to others. The term combines the adjective "yellowbellied," meaning fearful or lacking bravery, with the comparative form "more" to emphasize a heightened level of cowardice.
The term "yellowbellied" originated during the latter half of the 19th century in the United States, drawing imagery from the color yellow, associated with fear or caution, and the notion of a weak or tender belly symbolizing vulnerability. "Yellowbelly" became a colloquial expression to describe someone who cowers or lacks the bravery to confront challenges.
When the word "more" is added to "yellowbellied," it intensifies the level of cowardice, indicating an individual or group that exhibits an even greater lack of courage compared to other characters or situations. This comparative phrase suggests a heightened degree of timidity, hesitancy, or even fearfulness in one's actions or attitudes.
"More yellowbellied" is often used figuratively in casual conversations, literature, or other forms of communication to criticize or mock those who demonstrate extreme cowardice or who refuse to confront adversity. It serves as a derogatory term to express disapproval or disappointment in someone's lack of courage or willingness to confront challenging situations.
Common Misspellings for MORE YELLOWBELLIED
- more yellowbelliud
- more yellowbellimd
- more yellowbelliad
- more yellowbelligd
- more yellowbelliet
- more yellowbelliel
- m ore yellowbellied
- mo re yellowbellied
- mor e yellowbellied
- more y ellowbellied
- more ye llowbellied
- more yel lowbellied
- more yell owbellied
- more yellowbe llied
- more yellowbel lied
- more yellowbell ied
- more yellowbelli ed
- more yellowbellie d
Etymology of MORE YELLOWBELLIED
The phrase "more yellowbellied" consists of two parts: "yellow" and "bellied".
The term "yellow" comes from the Old English word "geolu", meaning "yellow" or "gold", which further traces its roots back to the Proto-Germanic word "gelwaz". The word has been used in English since the 9th century and is commonly associated with the color yellow.
The word "bellied" comes from the Middle English word "belly", derived from the Old English word "bælg", which referred to the stomach or the internal part of an animal. Over time, "belly" began to be used metaphorically to denote courage or cowardice.
When combined, "yellow" and "bellied" create the compound adjective "yellowbellied". The term originally emerged in the 19th century as an American idiom meaning cowardly or lacking courage.
