SHOT DOWN Meaning and
Definition
-
The phrase "shot down" is an idiomatic expression that can be used in various contexts to convey different meanings. In its literal sense, "shot down" refers to the act of purposely targeting and bringing down an airborne object, typically an aircraft or a missile, through the use of weapons such as guns or missiles. This military terminology is often used to describe the downing of enemy planes during warfare or combat scenarios.
However, "shot down" can also be used metaphorically to describe the rejection or disapproval of an idea, proposal, or suggestion. In this sense, it implies that someone's viewpoint, argument, or plan has been dismissed or criticized harshly, resulting in its perceived defeat or failure. The term conveys a sense of immediate and forceful negation, as if the idea has been swiftly and decisively dismantled or disproven.
Furthermore, "shot down" can indicate the act of figuratively suppressing someone's confidence, enthusiasm, or hopes. It suggests that one's ambitions or aspirations have been undermined, discouraged, or invalidated, leading to a loss of motivation or drive.
In summary, "shot down" can refer to the literal act of bringing down an aircraft by force as well as conveying metaphorical notions of rejection, dismissal, and discouragement. The specific meaning of the phrase depends on the context in which it is used.
Common Misspellings for SHOT DOWN
- shut down
- shott down
- ahot down
- zhot down
- xhot down
- dhot down
- ehot down
- whot down
- sgot down
- sbot down
- snot down
- sjot down
- suot down
- syot down
- shkt down
- shlt down
- shpt down
- sh0t down
- sh9t down
- shor down
Etymology of SHOT DOWN
The phrase "shot down" has its origins in military terminology, specifically in reference to airplanes being brought down by enemy fire.
The word "shot" in this context refers to a projectile or missile, usually fired from a firearm. It derives from the Old English "sceot" and Middle English "shot", which both mean "projectile" or "dart".
The verb "to shoot" itself has Indo-European roots and is related to Old Norse "skjóta" and Old High German "sciozan", both of which mean "to shoot" or "to throw".
The term "shot down" came into use during World War I, when aircraft became a significant aspect of warfare. It described the action of enemy fire successfully hitting and bringing down an aircraft, thus ending its flight.
Idioms with the word SHOT DOWN
-
be shot down in flames
The idiom "be shot down in flames" means to be decisively and harshly defeated or rejected, often in a public or humiliating manner. It implies a complete failure or rejection of one's ideas, proposals, arguments, or actions, typically resulting in embarrassment or disappointment. The phrase originates from military terminology, referring to an aircraft being shot down and crashing in flames during a combat mission.
Similar spelling words for SHOT DOWN
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
