POISON PEN Meaning and
Definition
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The term "poison pen" refers to an extremely derogatory phrase which conveys the idea of a written expression that is malicious, defamatory, or otherwise intended to harm or cause distress to the recipient. It can denote various forms of written communication, such as letters, messages, or even online posts, which are designed to spitefully attack the reputation, character, or emotions of an individual or organization.
The phrase "poison pen" is often associated with anonymous letters or hate mail, as the writer deliberately conceals their identity to avoid accountability for their hurtful words. Poison pen communications typically contain hateful language, false accusations, personal insults, or threats aimed at causing psychological damage or social harm. This form of communication thrives on the power of words to inflict emotional pain and can lead to severe consequences for both the recipient and the anonymous sender.
Historically, the term "poison pen" gained popularity during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries when anonymous letter-writing became a means of causing scandal or tarnishing reputations. However, in today's digital age, the phrase has evolved to encompass various modes of written defamation, including internet trolling and cyberbullying.
In summary, a "poison pen" refers to a written communication that contains harmful, defamatory, or abusive content, usually sent anonymously, with the intent to cause distress or harm to the recipient. It represents a manifestation of the dark side of human communication, where words are used as weapons to inflict emotional pain and damage the reputation of others.
Common Misspellings for POISON PEN
- ooison pen
- loison pen
- -oison pen
- 0oison pen
- piison pen
- pkison pen
- plison pen
- ppison pen
- p0ison pen
- p9ison pen
- pouson pen
- pojson pen
- pokson pen
- pooson pen
- po9son pen
- po8son pen
- poiaon pen
- poizon pen
- poixon pen
- poisonpen
Etymology of POISON PEN
The term "poison pen" originated in the late 19th century, combining two words with distinct origins.
1. "Poison" comes from the Latin word "potio" meaning "a potion, a drink", which later evolved to specifically refer to a toxic substance. The Old French word "poison" retained its meaning and entered the English language with the same sense of a deadly substance.
2. "Pen" comes from the Latin word "penna", meaning "a feather or a quill". This root word emphasizes the traditional writing instrument made from bird feathers.
The phrase "poison pen" represents the combination of these two words, reflecting the act of writing malicious or threatening letters designed to harm or defame someone. It is often associated with anonymous letters that were sent to spread false rumors or insults.
Idioms with the word POISON PEN
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a poison pen letter
A "poison pen letter" refers to a malicious or vitriolic piece of written correspondence typically sent anonymously to criticize, malign, or defame someone's character, usually aiming to cause distress or harm.
