SELL SOUL Meaning and
Definition
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"Selling your soul" is an idiomatic expression derived from folklore and literature, referring to a metaphoric act of relinquishing one's integrity, values, or moral principles for personal gain or advantage, typically in a negative or unethical context. This phrase implies a figurative transaction wherein an individual willingly compromises their authentic self or ideals in exchange for material wealth, power, success, or other desired outcomes.
The origin of this expression can be traced back to mythological and religious beliefs surrounding the concept of souls as a sacred essence or spiritual component of individuals. The concept gained further prominence through literary works, like the Faust legend, where characters metaphorically trade their souls to supernatural entities, often demons or devils, in return for extraordinary abilities or knowledge.
In modern usage, "selling your soul" typically implies a moral compromise or a situation where one abandons their values, beliefs, or integrity for personal gain or to achieve something coveted. It implies a transactional nature, where the individual consciously or unconsciously makes a pact that may result in moral decay, loss of self-identity, or spiritual damnation.
This expression is commonly employed to criticize individuals or institutions perceived to have abandoned principles or betrayed their own integrity for short-term benefit, suggesting a reckless pursuit of self-interest at the expense of moral or ethical considerations. It warns against the potentially irreversible consequences and the erosion of personal authenticity or virtue that may result from such actions. The phrase serves as a cautionary reminder of the importance of maintaining one's moral compass and adherence to personal values in the face of tempting opportunities or compromises.
Common Misspellings for SELL SOUL
- aell soul
- zell soul
- xell soul
- dell soul
- eell soul
- well soul
- swll soul
- ssll soul
- sdll soul
- srll soul
- s4ll soul
- s3ll soul
- sekl soul
- sepl soul
- seol soul
- selk soul
- selp soul
- selo soul
- sell aoul
- sell zoul
Etymology of SELL SOUL
The phrase "sell soul" does not have a specific etymology as it is a combination of two separate words: "sell" and "soul".
- "Sell" can be traced back to the Old English word "sellan", which means "to give, furnish, hand over, or deliver". It is also connected to the Proto-Germanic word "saljanan" and the Old Norse word "selja".
- "Soul" traces its origins to the Old English word "sawol", derived from the Proto-Germanic word "saiwalo" and the Gothic word "saiwalō".
The phrase "sell soul" is typically used metaphorically, referring to giving up or sacrificing one's moral or ethical principles or values in exchange for personal gain or benefit. The etymology of the individual words does not provide specific insight into the metaphorical meaning of the phrase.
