Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈæŋɡər/

Definitions

• Anger (noun): A strong feeling of displeasure or hostility, often arising from a perceived wrong or injustice.
• Anger (noun): A violent emotional response to a frustrating situation or a sense of being wronged.
• Anger (noun): A state of heightened emotional agitation, often leading to verbal or physical expression of frustration or hostility.

Usage Examples

• "Her face turned red with anger as she heard the unjust news."
• "He struggled to control his anger after the argument with his colleague."
• "The anger in his voice was evident as he confronted the situation."

Etymology

The word "anger" comes from Middle English "anger," derived from the Old Norse word "angr," which means grief, sorrow, or distress. It evolved to mean "rage" or "wrath" over time, possibly influenced by the concept of emotional suffering or torment. The term can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic *angr-, which meant "distress" or "pain."

Synonyms

• Rage
• Fury
• Wrath
• Ire
• Indignation
• Exasperation
• Vexation
• Frustration

Antonyms

• Calm
• Peace
• Serenity
• Contentment
• Patience
• Tranquility
• Composure

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, the stress is on the first syllable: /ˈæŋɡər/.
• In British English, the pronunciation may be slightly softer on the "g" sound, but still stressed on the first syllable: /ˈæŋɡər/.
• In Australian English, the "r" at the end is typically non-rhotic, so it may sound like /ˈæŋɡə/.

Historical Usage

The term "anger" has been used for centuries to describe the emotion associated with intense displeasure or hostility. It has appeared in literature from ancient texts to modern works, often representing a key emotional response to injustice, betrayal, or frustration. In classical literature, characters driven by anger often serve as cautionary tales, warning against the destructive power of unchecked rage.

Cultural Nuances

Anger is viewed differently across cultures. In many Western cultures, anger is often seen as a negative emotion that should be controlled or suppressed, while in some Eastern cultures, expressing anger in a constructive way is considered a part of maintaining balance. In certain societies, anger may be seen as a form of strength or empowerment, while in others, it may be viewed as a loss of self-control or dignity.

More Information

Anger is a fundamental human emotion that plays a complex role in individual and collective behavior. It is often seen as a response to perceived injustice, mistreatment, or frustration. Although anger is frequently associated with negative outcomes, it can also serve as a catalyst for positive change when managed properly. In psychological studies, anger is often categorized as a "secondary" emotion, one that arises from deeper feelings such as hurt, fear, or helplessness. Learning to identify and manage anger can help individuals lead more peaceful and fulfilling lives.