The word "pelting" is spelled with the letters P-E-L-T-I-N-G. In IPA phonetics, it is represented as /ˈpɛltɪŋ/. The first sound is a voiceless bilabial stop /p/. The second sound is an open-mid front unrounded vowel /ɛ/. The third sound is a voiceless alveolar fricative /l/. The fourth sound is a voiceless alveolar plosive /t/. The fifth sound is an open-mid front unrounded vowel /ɪ/. The last sound is a velar nasal /ŋ/. "Pelting" can mean attacking with repeated blows or throwing something with force.
Pelting, as a verb, refers to the act of throwing something with force or intensity, typically small objects or projectiles. It involves rapidly launching or propelling items through the air, often in a haphazard or disorderly manner. The action of pelting can imply a sense of aggression, as if bombarding or assaulting with various objects. Examples of common items that can be used for pelting include stones, pebbles, snowballs, or even fruit. Pelting can be done for different purposes, such as during a playful activity or as an act of protest.
As a noun, pelting refers to the act or action of throwing or launching projectiles. It can also denote the state of being bombarded or hit repeatedly by projectiles. In this sense, it suggests the receipt of projectiles with some degree of intensity or frequency. The noun form can also describe the onslaught of rain or hail, where objects in the form of precipitation are coming down vigorously or relentlessly. When used to describe the weather, it indicates heavy, continuous rain or hail.
Overall, whether used as a verb or noun, the term "pelting" carries the connotation of forceful and repeated throwing or bombardment, either physically or as a description of weather conditions.
An assault with some violence by something thrown.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "pelting" has an interesting etymology. It is derived from the Old English word "peltung", which comes from the verb "peltan" meaning "to strike with force" or "to throw". This verb is related to the noun "pelta" in Old Norse, which means "a small shield" or "a target for throwing weapons". Over time, "peltung" evolved into "pelting", and its meaning shifted to refer to a bombardment or rapid attack of something. Today, "pelting" typically describes the action of throwing or hitting something repeatedly, or being bombarded by objects or projectiles.