The word "ostracized" (ˈɒstrəsaɪzd) is spelled with "ostrac-" as the root word. The "-ize" at the end represents the Greek suffix "-izo," which is used to form verbs meaning "to make" or "to cause." The combined spelling refers to the act of excluding someone from a group or society, usually through social or political means. Understanding the IPA phonetic transcription of words like "ostracized" can help improve spelling and pronunciation.
Ostracized is an adjective derived from the verb "ostracize." It refers to the act of excluding, alienating, or isolating an individual or a group from a social circle or community. In essence, ostracized individuals are deliberately disregarded or avoided by others, leading to their separation or marginalization.
When someone is ostracized, they are usually subjected to social rejection, disapproval, or even hostility. Ostracism can manifest in various forms, such as exclusion from social events, deliberate avoidance, denial of opportunities, or stigmatization. It is primarily driven by a collective decision or consensus within a community to exclude the targeted person due to various reasons, including social differences, personal beliefs, misconduct, or the perception of being a threat to the group's norms or values.
The process of ostracism can have detrimental effects on the individual's psychological well-being, self-esteem, and sense of belonging. It may cause feelings of loneliness, sadness, shame, or insecurity. Ostracized individuals often experience a lack of support, understanding, or empathy from others, leading to their separation from the larger social fabric.
Understanding the concept of ostracized is crucial in recognizing the harmful effects of exclusion and promoting inclusivity within communities. It highlights the importance of acknowledging and respecting individual differences, fostering empathy, and creating an environment that embraces diversity and social integration.
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The word "ostracized" traces its origins back to ancient Greece. It is derived from the Greek term "ostrakizein", which means to "exile by voting with potsherds" or "to banish by using shards". In ancient Athens, there was a practice called "ostracism" in which citizens would write the name of a person deemed dangerous or harmful to the city on a piece of broken pottery (called an ostrakon). These potsherds would then be collected, and if a particular individual received a certain number of votes, usually 6,000, they would be banished from the city for a period of ten years.