Sinking feelings are an unpleasant emotion that can arise when someone experiences a sense of hopelessness, despair or defeat. The spelling of the word 'sinking feelings' is pronounced [ˈsɪŋkɪŋ ˈfiːlɪŋz], with the stress on the first syllable. The word 'sinking' is spelled with an 's' and not a 'c', which is commonly mistaken. The vowel sound in the word 'feelings' is a long 'e' followed by a short 'i'. Together, these sounds represent the negative feelings of a person who is downhearted or sad.
Sinking feelings, often described as a noun phrase, refers to an emotional state characterized by a sense of heaviness, desolation, or discomfort that weighs down an individual's spirits or emotions. The term is used metaphorically to depict a deep-seated sensation of sadness, unease, or apprehension that appears to accumulate or descend within one's conscious or subconscious mind, evoking a notion of sinking deeper into emotional turmoil or distress.
Typically experienced in response to distressing events, disappointing news, or moments of self-doubt, sinking feelings can manifest as a physical sensation, causing a sinking or dropping sensation in the pit of one's stomach. This visceral reaction can be associated with a general sense of foreboding, hopelessness, or the perception of a negative outcome or impending doom. Consequently, individuals may find themselves overwhelmed or immobilized by the weight of their emotions, often leading to a loss of motivation and a decline in mood.
Sinking feelings are often linked to a perception of one's life circumstances becoming progressively worse or the additional burden of internalized negativity. This emotional state is characterized by a deepening sense of despair, making it challenging to maintain a positive outlook or find solace in everyday activities. If left unaddressed, sinking feelings can potentially contribute to prolonged emotional distress, anxiety, or depression.
It is important to note that sinking feelings are subjective and can vary significantly from person to person. While some individuals may experience sinking feelings in response to specific triggers, others may have a predisposition to a more constant and lingering sense of unease. Seeking support from trusted individuals, mental health professionals, or engaging in self-care practices can be beneficial in managing and mitigating the impact of sinking feelings.
The phrase "sinking feeling" has a figurative meaning that describes a sensation of disappointment, anxiety, or heaviness. Let's explore the possible etymology of this expression.
The word "sinking" is derived from the verb "sink", which has its roots in Old English and Germanic languages. The verb "sink" originally meant "to become submerged in water", and it has been used figuratively to describe things going downwards or getting worse since the late 14th century.
The term "sinking feeling" itself is believed to have originated in the early 20th century. It is likely that the phrase evolved as a metaphorical representation of the physical sensation experienced when something heavy sinks or descends rapidly. When applied to emotions or mental states, the "sinking feeling" suggests the sinking or descent of one's emotional state, typically associated with sadness, disappointment, or apprehension.