Pronunciation: [wˈʊlft dˈa͡ʊn] (IPA) 
The expression "wolfed down" means to eat something quickly and greedily. The word "wolf" is spelled with a "w" sound followed by an "o" sound pronounced like "uh" (IPA: /wʊlf/). The past tense of the verb "to wolf" is spelled with an "-ed" suffix (/d/ sound). The final sound of "wolfed down" is spelled with a "d" sound (/daʊn/). Therefore, the IPA transcription of "wolfed down" is /wʊlft daʊn/.
The phrase "wolfed down" refers to the act of consuming food or a meal rapidly and voraciously. It carries a connotation of devouring food with great hunger or enthusiasm, often demonstrating a lack of restraint or manners in the process.
The term "wolfed down" originates from the behavior and characteristics of wolves when feeding. Wolves are known for their swift and aggressive manner of consuming large quantities of prey when they have the opportunity. Similarly, when an individual "wolfs down" their food, they exhibit similar traits, exhibiting eagerness and haste without focusing on decorum or etiquette.
To "wolf down" a meal implies a sense of urgency or an overwhelming hunger, often indicating that the person may have been famished or excessively hungry. It suggests a lack of mindfulness or enjoyment of the food, emphasizing the necessity of satisfying one's appetite rather than appreciating the flavors or savoring the eating experience.
This phrase can be used to describe a range of scenarios, from a person hastily finishing a meal due to a limited time constraint, to someone eating ravenously out of intense hunger or excitement. It implies a lack of mindfulness in eating, prioritizing the need to consume quickly rather than savoring the meal.
The etymology of the phrase "wolfed down" can be traced back to the noun "wolf". The word "wolf" originated from the Old English word "wulf" and is ultimately derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*wulfaz". It is believed to have common roots with other Germanic languages such as Old Norse "úlfr" and Old High German "wolf".
The verb "wolf" has been used metaphorically for hundreds of years to describe the act of devouring food greedily or quickly, much like how a wolf eats. Over time, this metaphorical usage led to the phrase "wolf down", which means to eat voraciously or hastily.
The addition of "down" in the phrase "wolfed down" serves as an intensifier, emphasizing the speed or intensity with which something is consumed.
