Pronunciation: [tˈi͡əɡast] (IPA) 
Teargassed is a verb that refers to the act of using tear gas as a weapon or crowd control measure. The word is spelled with two separate parts: "tear" and "gassed." The first syllable, "tear," is pronounced with the vowel sound /ɛ/ as in "let." The second syllable, "gassed," is pronounced with the vowel sound /æ/ as in "cat." Together, the word is pronounced as /ˈtɛrɡæst/ with the stress on the first syllable.
Teargassed is an adjective that describes the act of subjecting someone or a group of individuals to the use of tear gas as a means of crowd control or suppression during protests, riots, or other potentially volatile situations. Tear gas is a chemical compound, typically a derivative of capsicum, that is dispersed into the air in the form of a fine mist or smoke. It is highly irritant to the eyes, nose, throat, and skin, causing severe discomfort, burning sensations, and uncontrollable tearing, hence the name "tear gas".
When tear gas is deployed, it typically leads to immediate dispersion of the crowd due to the intense suffering it induces, as individuals in the affected area dodge, cover their faces, and attempt to escape the irritant. Tear gas is considered a non-lethal weapon, primarily used as a way to disperse and pacify potentially violent or agitated groups without causing serious harm or fatalities. However, excessive or improper use of tear gas can result in severe injuries or even fatalities, particularly for people with pre-existing respiratory conditions or vulnerable individuals such as children, the elderly, or pregnant women.
The use of tear gas has been a topic of controversy, with arguments regarding its potential for abuse, long-term health effects, and impact on human rights. Critics argue that the use of tear gas can infringe upon civil liberties and be utilized as a tool for excessive force or state repression, while proponents view it as a necessary means of maintaining security and public order in tense or violent situations.
The word "teargassed" is derived from the combination of two words: "tear" and "gas".
The term "tear" originated from the Old English word "tear", which meant a drop of the salty liquid that comes from the eyes as a result of emotions, such as sadness or pain. The word "gas" originated from the Greek word "chaos" (meaning a void or empty space) and evolved over time to refer to a state or substance in which atoms or molecules move freely and independently.
During World War I, tear gas was first used as a chemical weapon that caused irritation to the eyes, causing tearing, and had a disabling effect on individuals. The expression "teargassed" emerged as a way to describe the act of being subjected to tear gas or the effects of tear gas exposure, with "tear" representing the resultant tears, and "gas" signifying the chemical substance.
