The phrase "wrings hands" is a common expression used to describe someone who is anxious or distressed. It is spelled with a silent "w" at the beginning and the "g" in "wrings" is pronounced as "ng" like the "ng" sound in "sing". This is reflected in the IPA phonetic transcription spelling /rɪŋz hændz/. The word "wrings" is a verb conjugation of "wring" which means to twist or squeeze something tightly. Overall, this phrase highlights the physical manifestation of worry and concern.
The phrase "wrings hands" refers to a mannerism or gesture often associated with anxiety, worry, or distress. It describes the action of forcefully squeezing, twisting, or rubbing one's hands together, usually one hand over the other. This action often implies a sense of helplessness, frustration, or agitation, and is commonly done repetitively.
The gesture of wringing hands is typically seen as a subconscious or involuntary response to stressful situations, depicting internal turmoil or unease. It can manifest in various scenarios, such as during moments of apprehension, anticipation, or when an individual is confronted with a difficult predicament. It can also indicate a state of emotional distress, guilt, or remorse.
This physical act has been used as a literary device in various forms of artistic expression, such as literature, theater, or film, to symbolize the inner conflict or struggle of a character. It serves as a visual representation of one's attempt to alleviate tension or anxiety through self-soothing.
The phrase "wrings hands" has become a metaphorical expression of someone's worry or anguish over a specific matter. It emphasizes the individual's inability to find a solution or bring about a desired outcome. The repeated action of wringing hands further implies a desperate need for resolution or relief from a troubling situation.
The phrase "wrings hands" is not a single word but a combination of two words: "wrings" and "hands".
The word "wrings" comes from the verb "wring", which originated from the Old English word "wringan". It has roots in the Germanic language family, specifically from the Proto-Germanic word "wrangijaną". The meaning of "wrings" in this context refers to the action of tightly twisting or squeezing something.
On the other hand, "hands" stems from the Old English word "hand", which has a similar form in several Germanic languages and can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "handuz". Its etymology also extends further to the Proto-Indo-European word "ḱm̥tóm", meaning "hand" or "arm".