walling-up (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

• Noun

Phonetic Transcription

• /ˈwɔːlɪŋ ʌp/

Meaning and Usage

• Meaning: The term "walling-up" typically refers to the act of building a wall around something or creating a barrier that encloses or isolates an area. In a metaphorical sense, it can also refer to emotional isolation, where a person withdraws from others.
• Usage: "Walling-up" can be used in both literal and metaphorical contexts. It is moderately used in written contexts, particularly in literature and psychology, while in oral language, it is less frequent.
• Frequency of Use: It is not a commonly used term in everyday conversation but is more likely to appear in academic, psychological, or literary contexts.

Example Sentences

1. The old castle was in a state of walling-up, with crumbling stones isolating it from the outside world.
   El viejo castillo estaba en un estado de encerramiento, con piedras desmoronadas que lo aislaban del mundo exterior.

2. After the traumatic event, she began walling-up, avoiding contact with friends and family.
   Después del evento traumático, empezó a encerrarse, evitando el contacto con amigos y familiares.

3. The town’s walling-up against tourists was evident, with signs discouraging visitors from entering.
   El aislamiento de la ciudad contra los turistas era evidente, con carteles desanimando a los visitantes a entrar.

Idiomatic Expressions

"Walling-up" can be a part of expressions related to isolation or mental barriers. Here are some idiomatic expressions that connect to this idea:

Example Idiomatic Sentences

1. To wall oneself up: After his breakup, he chose to wall himself up and refused to socialize.
   Después de su ruptura, decidió encerrarse y se negó a socializar.

2. Walling up emotions: Walling up emotions is unhealthy; it's better to express what you feel.
   Reprimir las emociones es poco saludable; es mejor expresar lo que sientes.

3. Walling up against the world: He was walling up against the world, convinced no one would understand him.
   Se estaba encerrando contra el mundo, convencido de que nadie lo entendería.

4. They put up walls: When she lost her job, she put up walls to avoid feeling vulnerable.
   Cuando perdió su trabajo, levantó muros para evitar sentirse vulnerable.

Etymology

The word "wall" originates from the Old English "weall," which means "a rampart or enclosure." The act of "walling up" combines this root with the verb "up," indicating an action of enclosing or fortifying.

Synonyms and Antonyms

• Synonyms:
• Enclosure
• Isolation

• Seclusion

• Antonyms:

• Openness
• Engagement
• Connection

This detailed overview encapsulates the meanings, usages, and contexts of the term "walling-up."