Choler

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈkäl-ər/

Definitions

• A medieval term referring to one of the four bodily humors, believed to be yellow bile, thought to cause irritability and anger when in excess.
• Anger, wrath, or irritability, particularly in a historical or literary context.
• The bile secreted by the liver, typically referred to in historical or medical discussions about humoral theory.

Usage Examples

• His choler was evident as he yelled at the crew, his face flushed with rage.
• The play's protagonist is often overcome with choler, reflecting his deep internal conflict.
• In medieval medicine, an imbalance of choler was thought to lead to temperamental behavior.

Etymology

Originates from the Latin word "choler," meaning bile, which is derived from the Greek word "kholē," referring to bile. The term was used in the context of ancient and medieval humoral theory, which posited that the body’s health depended on the balance of four fluids or humors.

Synonyms

• Anger
• Rage
• Fury
• Wrath

Antonyms

• Calm
• Peace
• Serenity
• Composure

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In some regions, the term "choler" may be pronounced with an emphasis on the first syllable, while in other areas, it is more evenly stressed across both syllables.

Historical Usage

Historically, "choler" was one of the four humors in ancient medical theory, alongside phlegm, blood, and black bile. An excess of choler was thought to lead to anger and irritability, and physicians used it to explain a variety of mental and physical conditions. The concept of the four humors has since been debunked, but the word "choler" is still used today to refer to anger or temper.

Cultural Nuances

The word "choler" is frequently used in historical and literary contexts, often as a description of anger or wrath. In classical literature, characters driven by choler often exhibit a fierce temperament. In modern usage, it is less common but may be used in more formal or poetic writing.

More Information

The concept of choler, as a bodily humor, played a central role in ancient medicine. The imbalance of the humors was thought to cause various physical and mental health problems. Choler, associated with the liver, was thought to produce bile and was believed to affect a person's disposition, making them prone to anger. Although modern medicine has moved beyond these ancient theories, the word still holds cultural significance in understanding historical medical practices and literature. Today, "choler" is primarily used to describe anger or temper, often with a historical or figurative connotation.