How Do You Spell HANGDOG LOOK?

1. A "hangdog look" refers to a facial expression or demeanor that reflects feelings of guilt, shame, or remorse. This phrase is commonly used to describe someone who appears downcast, dejected, or ashamed, usually as a result of having done something wrong or having been caught in a difficult situation. The term originates from the behavior of dogs when they are scolded or reprimanded for misbehaving.

   When someone has a hangdog look, their facial features may exhibit characteristics of sadness, such as drooped eyes, a lowered head, hunched shoulders, or a general expression of defeat. This expression can communicate a sense of regret or embarrassment, as if the person is carrying the weight of their mistake or misfortune.

   The term "hangdog look" often implies a certain loss of confidence or self-assurance, as well as a desire for forgiveness or understanding. It can indicate a person's internal struggle to reconcile their actions or decisions with societal or personal expectations. People may wear a hangdog look when facing consequences or when they feel emotionally defeated.

   While primarily used to describe human expressions, "hangdog look" can also be applied metaphorically to describe animals. It conveys a sense of vulnerability, submission, or regret in any living being that exhibits such a downcast expression or demeanor. This phrase is commonly used in literature, conversation, and storytelling to evoke empathy, understanding, or judgment towards individuals who display a hangdog look.

Common Misspellings for HANGDOG LOOK

The phrase "hangdog look" is believed to have originated from the combination of two separate words: "hangdog" and "look".

1. "Hangdog": The term "hangdog" can be traced back to the Old English word "hangian", meaning "to be suspended". Over time, "hangdog" evolved to describe the appearance of a dog with its head hung low in a submissive or guilty manner. This idea of drooping or downcast became associated with a person's demeanor, implying guilt, shame, or a sense of defeat.

2. "Look": The word itself has Old English origins but has retained its basic meaning throughout the centuries. It refers to the act of visually perceiving something or conveying an expression or appearance.

Combining "hangdog" and "look" resulted in the phrase "hangdog look" describing an expression of guilt, shame, sadness, or dejection.

Idioms with the word HANGDOG LOOK