PROCRUSTESIAN Meaning and
Definition
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Procrustean is an adjective that refers to an oppressive or rigid standard, system, or approach that requires strict conformity or compliance, often to the detriment or detriment of those involved. The term is derived from Greek mythology, specifically from the character Procrustes (also known as "Prokroustes"), who was a notorious bandit and son of Poseidon. According to legend, Procrustes had a bed in which he would invite travelers to rest. However, if they were too tall for the bed, he would forcibly shorten them by amputating their limbs to fit the bed's dimensions. Conversely, if they were too short for the bed, he would stretch and torture them until they fit.
In a metaphorical sense, to describe something as Procrustean implies that it forces individuals or situations to conform to rigid, predefined standards, often disregarding individuality, uniqueness, or legitimate variations. It implies a lack of flexibility or adaptability, leading to potential harm, injustice, or unfairness. This term is often used to critique systems, policies, or practices that enforce uniformity or standardization without considering the diverse needs, circumstances, or abilities of the people involved. It signifies a disregard for the natural differences or variations that exist among individuals, instead favoring a one-size-fits-all approach. The use of the term Procrustean highlights the unjust imposition of inflexible standards or expectations onto individuals or situations, emphasizing the resulting negative consequences and the suppression of individuality or inherent characteristics.
Common Misspellings for PROCRUSTESIAN
- Procrustein
- orocrustesian
- lrocrustesian
- -rocrustesian
- 0rocrustesian
- peocrustesian
- pdocrustesian
- pfocrustesian
- ptocrustesian
- p5ocrustesian
- p4ocrustesian
- pricrustesian
- prkcrustesian
- prlcrustesian
- prpcrustesian
- pr0crustesian
- pr9crustesian
- proxrustesian
- provrustesian
- profrustesian
Etymology of PROCRUSTESIAN
The term "Procrustesian" is derived from the Greek mythological figure Procrustes. Procrustes, also known as "Prokroustes" in Greek, was a notorious robber who owned a small estate in Attica, Greece. He had a unique bed, which he would offer to passing travelers. However, once the guests lay down on the bed, Procrustes would either stretch them or cut off their limbs to fit the bed perfectly. The word "Procrustean" originates from this tale and is used to describe an arbitrary and ruthless process of making someone or something conform to a fixed standard or set of rules, often disregarding individual differences.
