POISONPEN LETTER Meaning and
Definition
-
A poison pen letter, often referred to as a poison pen message or poison letter, is a written communication that aims to spread slanderous, malicious, or offensive remarks about an individual or an organization. It is a form of anonymous and hostile correspondence that is typically composed with an intention to harm or defame the recipient. The content of such letters is often filled with derogatory comments, false accusations, personal attacks, or cruel jokes, intended to undermine the reputation, integrity, or emotional well-being of the recipient.
The term "poison pen" symbolizes the harmful nature of these letters, as they carry a toxic quality that can stir up distress, anger, and hurt in the recipient. The anonymity surrounding poison pen letters adds to their damaging effects since the sender remains unidentified, making it challenging to confront or address the issue directly.
Although poison pen letters have roots in historical periods, the advent of the internet and social media platforms has facilitated the spread of poisonous messages with relative ease and efficiency. Nevertheless, the impact of these letters can be far-reaching, impacting not only the targeted individuals but also their relationships, personal lives, or even careers.
Overall, poison pen letters represent a form of malicious communication intended to cause emotional harm and distress by spreading defamatory remarks, typically without revealing the identity of the sender.
Common Misspellings for POISONPEN LETTER
- ooisonpen letter
- loisonpen letter
- -oisonpen letter
- 0oisonpen letter
- piisonpen letter
- pkisonpen letter
- plisonpen letter
- ppisonpen letter
- p0isonpen letter
- p9isonpen letter
- pousonpen letter
- pojsonpen letter
- poksonpen letter
- poosonpen letter
- po9sonpen letter
- po8sonpen letter
- poiaonpen letter
- poizonpen letter
- poixonpen letter
Etymology of POISONPEN LETTER
The term "poison pen letter" has its roots in the combination of two separate origins - "poison pen" and "poison letter".
The expression "poison pen" originated in the early 20th century and refers to the act of writing malicious or vindictive letters, often anonymously, with the intention of causing harm or distress to the recipient. This usage of "poison pen" comes from the metaphorical association between the harmful effects of certain chemicals or toxins and the harmful impact of these written messages.
On the other hand, the term "poison letter" simply refers to any letter or written communication that contains harmful or damaging contents. The use of "poison" in this context again reflects the metaphorical idea of the toxicity of the message.
Over time, these terms merged into the compound term "poison pen letter", which describes a letter intended to cause harm, distress, or damage to someone's reputation.
Idioms with the word POISONPEN LETTER
-
a poisonpen letter
The idiom "a poison pen letter" refers to a malicious or spiteful letter that is intended to harm or discredit the recipient, often filled with accusations, insults, or false information. It is a figurative expression to describe any written communication that is meant to cause hurt or damage to someone's reputation or well-being.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
