WENT WHITE Meaning and
Definition
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"went white" is an idiomatic expression used to describe the change in color of a person's face, particularly the loss or absence of its natural color, resulting in a pale or ashen complexion. This phrase is often used to signify a sudden onset of fear, shock, apprehension, surprise, or a similar intense emotion that causes immediate physical reactions.
When a person "goes white," it typically implies that their complexion turns noticeably paler due to the constriction of blood vessels, causing reduced blood flow to the face. The term is metaphorical, implying that the absence of color is akin to the draining or disappearance of energy, vitality, or life from the individual's face.
The phenomenon of "going white" may be related to the body's natural fight-or-flight response triggered by high-stress situations, where the release of adrenaline constricts blood vessels and diverts blood flow towards the muscles to prepare for physical action. This diversion can result in a sudden whitening of the face as blood is redirected from the skin's surface.
The phrase "went white" is often employed in literature, personal anecdotes, or storytelling to vividly portray the physical impact of intense emotions on an individual's appearance. It signifies a visible reaction to extreme surprise or shock, frequently adding depth and emphasis to the perceived gravity of a situation.
Common Misspellings for WENT WHITE
- qent white
- aent white
- sent white
- eent white
- 3ent white
- 2ent white
- wwnt white
- wsnt white
- wdnt white
- wrnt white
- w4nt white
- w3nt white
- webt white
- wemt white
- wejt white
- weht white
- wenr white
- wenf white
- weng white
- weny white
Etymology of WENT WHITE
The phrase "went white" does not have a specific etymology as it is a combination of the verb "went", which has Old English roots, and the adjective "white", which can be traced back to Old English as well. However, when used in the context of describing a sudden change in someone's complexion, "went white" is often associated with the physiological response of a person's face becoming pale or losing color due to fear, shock, or a sudden emotional or physical change.
