PUTTING PEDESTAL Meaning and
Definition
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"Putting on a pedestal" is an idiomatic expression that refers to the act of regarding someone or something with great admiration, high esteem, or adoration. The phrase is derived from the notion of placing a valuable or treasured item on a pedestal, literally elevating it above ordinary objects, signifying its importance and worthiness of reverence.
When someone is "put on a pedestal," they are regarded as being superior, exceptional, or perfect, often to an unrealistic extent. This can occur in the context of personal relationships, where one may idealize their partner, attributing them flawless qualities or placing their opinions and needs above their own. Similarly, individuals may put celebrities, public figures, or even historical figures on a pedestal, giving them unwavering support, admiration, or idolization.
While putting someone on a pedestal can be seen as a sign of respect and admiration, it can also have negative consequences. Placing excessive expectations on individuals can lead to disappointment when they inevitably fall short of the idealized image. Moreover, it can create an imbalance in relationships, as the person on the pedestal may feel overwhelmed by the pressure and fail to meet the unattainable standards imposed upon them.
In summary, "putting on a pedestal" refers to the act of idolizing or excessively esteeming someone or something, often resulting in overly idealistic expectations and potential disappointment.
Common Misspellings for PUTTING PEDESTAL
Etymology of PUTTING PEDESTAL
The phrase "putting on a pedestal" is not a single word, but a combination of words that have their own individual etymologies:
- "Put": The word "put" comes from Middle English "putten", which evolved from Old English "putian", meaning "to thrust, push, or put forward". It ultimately has roots in Proto-Germanic and Proto-Indo-European languages.
- "On": The word "on" comes from Old English "on", which is derived from the Proto-Germanic root "*ana". It has cognates in other Germanic languages such as German "an" and Dutch "aan".
- "Pedestal": The word "pedestal" comes from the Latin word "pedestalis", which literally means "footstool". It is a combination of "pes" meaning "foot" and "-stal", a suffix that denotes a base or support.
