SLOUGHS OFF Meaning and
Definition
-
Sloughs off is a phrasal verb that is used to describe the act of shedding or getting rid of something. It can have both literal and figurative meanings depending on the context.
In a literal sense, sloughs off refers to the process of shedding skin, feathers, or any other outer covering, commonly observed in reptiles, birds, or insects. For instance, a snake sloughs off its old skin as it grows bigger, enabling new skin to take its place. Similarly, birds slough off feathers during the molting season to replace them with new ones.
In a figurative sense, sloughs off means to discard or cast aside something, typically used when referring to negative habits, emotions, or situations. This can imply the act of getting rid of unwanted feelings, responsibilities, or burdens. For example, someone might state that they are trying to slough off their bad habits, indicating their intention to abandon or overcome detrimental behaviors. Alternatively, a person who wants to move on from a difficult phase in their life might say that they are sloughing off the negativity or weight of their past experiences.
Overall, the term sloughs off embodies the notion of shedding or discarding, whether it be a physical covering or something intangible, in order to make way for something new or better.
Common Misspellings for SLOUGHS OFF
Etymology of SLOUGHS OFF
The word "sloughs off" has two distinct etymological origins, depending on its usage.
1. When "sloughs off" is used to mean shedding or getting rid of something, like dead skin or old habits, it is derived from the noun "slough". In this sense, "slough" originated in Middle English, from Old English "sloʊʊh" or "slōh", which means the outer layer of dead skin that is shed by a reptile or an insect. This noun has roots in Proto-Germanic "slukhwaz", which means "slack" or "loose".
2. When "sloughs off" is used in a figurative sense to describe someone's lack of effort or indifference towards something, it is derived from the verb "slough".
