RATTLED CAGE Meaning and
Definition
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Rattled Cage:
The phrase "rattled cage" refers to a metaphorical expression that describes an individual or a group of people who have disturbed or agitated someone, typically resulting in anger, frustration, or a strong reaction. It conveys the idea of shaking or disturbing the tranquility and stability of a person's emotional state or beliefs.
In a figurative sense, "rattled cage" implies pushing someone's buttons, provoking them, or causing them to become upset, defensive, or even confrontational. It signifies the action of intentionally challenging or unsettling an individual's comfort zone, boundaries, opinions, or preconceived notions.
Typically used in informal contexts, the expression "rattled cage" often refers to situations where people deliberately challenge someone's ideas, authority, or actions, hoping to evoke a passionate response. It can also imply an attempt to disrupt the established order or unsettle someone who appears calm and confident.
Consequently, "rattling someone's cage" suggests disrupting their emotional equilibrium or unsettling their convictions, often leading to an uncharacteristic behavior or an intense reaction. It serves as a reminder that everyone has limits, and when those boundaries are crossed or breached, it can result in an energetic, defensive, or emotional response similar to a caged animal being provoked.
Common Misspellings for RATTLED CAGE
- rattle caged
- rattle cage
- rattel cage
- eattled cage
- dattled cage
- fattled cage
- tattled cage
- 5attled cage
- 4attled cage
- rzttled cage
- rsttled cage
- rwttled cage
- rqttled cage
- rartled cage
- raftled cage
- ragtled cage
- raytled cage
- ra6tled cage
- ra5tled cage
- ratrled cage
Etymology of RATTLED CAGE
The phrase "rattled cage" is an idiomatic expression, and it does not have a specific etymology. However, it can be analyzed based on the meanings of the individual words involved.
The word "rattle" has Old English origins and originally referred to the sound produced when objects such as coins or bones were shaken or moved. Over time, it gained a metaphorical sense of disturbance or agitation, often related to fear or anxiety.
Similarly, "cage" is derived from the Latin word "cavea", which meant a hollow or enclosure. It eventually evolved to specifically denote a structure used to confine animals.
When the words "rattle" and "cage" are combined, the phrase "rattled cage" suggests a situation where someone or something is agitated, disturbed, or unsettled.
