The expression "spoiled rotten" refers to a person who has been excessively pampered or indulged, leading to selfish or entitled behavior. The word "spoiled" is pronounced /spɔɪld/, with the vowel sound represented by the IPA symbol /ɔɪ/. The word "rotten" is pronounced /ˈrɒtn/, with the first vowel sound represented by the IPA symbol /ɒ/ and the second represented by the IPA symbol /ən/. Together, "spoiled rotten" is a catchy and memorable phrase that conveys the idea of someone who has been indulged to the point of becoming unpleasant.
Spoiled rotten is an idiomatic phrase used to characterize an individual, particularly a child, who has been excessively indulged or pampered to the point that they have developed a sense of entitlement and self-centered behavior. It implies that this person has been given excessive material possessions, lenient rules or boundaries, and little to no discipline or accountability for their actions.
When referring to someone as spoiled rotten, it suggests that they have become so accustomed to receiving preferential treatment or having their desires met immediately that they have lost appreciation for the value of things and developed a lack of empathy towards others. This often results in an attitude of entitlement, a tendency to manipulate or throw tantrums when things do not go their way, and a difficulty in accepting responsibility for their actions.
The phrase spoiled rotten has negative connotations, as it implies that the person's behavior is a direct result of being spoiled and that they might be lacking in personal growth or maturity. It suggests an imbalance in the upbringing of an individual, where their desires and whims have been prioritized over teaching them important life skills such as patience, gratitude, and social awareness.
Overall, the term "spoiled rotten" is used to describe an individual, usually a child, who has been excessively pampered and allowed to develop negative behavioral traits due to a lack of discipline, boundaries, or exposure to consequences.
The etymology of the phrase "spoiled rotten" can be understood by breaking down the meanings of the individual words.
1. Spoiled: The word "spoiled" originated from the Middle English word "spoil", which was derived from Old French "espoillier". This ultimately came from the Latin word "spoliare" meaning "to despoil or plunder". In its original sense, "spoiled" referred to goods or possessions that were seized or taken through looting or war. Over time, the term evolved to include the concept of something being ruined or damaged, leading to its modern meaning of being adversely affected or harmed.
2. Rotten: The word "rotten" comes from the Old English word "rotian", which is related to the Old Norse word "rotna". Both words refer to the process of decay or decomposition.