HARD BOILED Meaning and
Definition
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The term "hard-boiled" holds multiple interpretations depending on the context it is used in. In a culinary sense, hard-boiled refers to the cooking technique of boiling an unshelled egg until the yolk and white firm up, resulting in a solid, fully cooked consistency. This method involves submerging the egg in boiling water and cooking it for a specified amount of time, typically around 10 to 12 minutes, to achieve the desired hardness.
However, "hard-boiled" can also be employed metaphorically to describe a certain type of personality or character. In this context, it refers to an individual who is tough, cynical, and unemotional, often displaying a stoic or jaded demeanor. Such people are usually experienced, street-smart, and have been exposed to harsh realities, allowing them to adapt and endure challenging situations without showing vulnerability. The term is frequently associated with detective fiction and film noir genres, wherein the protagonist possesses a rugged, uncompromising nature, often accompanied by a suitably gritty outlook on life.
In summary, "hard-boiled" denotes the cooking method of boiling an egg until it becomes solid, as well as the figurative description of a tough, emotionally hardened person.
Common Misspellings for HARD BOILED
Etymology of HARD BOILED
The phrase "hard-boiled" originates from the culinary term related to the cooking of eggs. The term "hard-boiled" first emerged in the early 17th century in reference to eggs that are boiled until both the yolk and the white become firm.
Over time, the phrase "hard-boiled" started to be used metaphorically and extended beyond its culinary sense to describe individuals who were tough, unsentimental, and unflinching. It gained popularity in the early 20th century, particularly within the realm of crime fiction and detective novels, to portray characters who were gritty, cynical, and jaded.
This transition from its original culinary meaning to describe a certain type of personality is an example of semantic expansion, where a word or phrase takes on new figurative or metaphorical meanings in addition to its initial literal meaning.
Similar spelling words for HARD BOILED
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