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The term's original neutral connotation became entirely negative during the 20th century; therefore, freak with its literal meaning of "abnormally developed individual" is viewed purely as a pejorative today. [2][3] However, the term is also recently used playfully to refer to an enthusiast or obsessive person.
1. It hasn't always carried a negative connotation, and even today, it doesn't always carry a negative connotation. Here are some examples: You'll find an archaic definition where freak is a whimsical quality or disposition. (ref #2) Another archaic definition is to streak or fleck randomly. (ref)
There are 21 meanings listed in OED's entry for the word freak, two of which are labelled obsolete, and nine of which are considered offensive and derogatory. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.
Sep 23, 2024 · When long-haired, outlandishly dressed, drug-using hippies pilgrimaged to Haight-Ashbury in the early 1960s, they were quickly dubbed freaks; the pejorative appellation was both obvious and intended. It was not long before freak had become practically synonymous with hippie.
Dec 20, 2014 · Does freak have negative connotations when it's used to describe a person who's very or overly interested in something? Like football freak or coding freak.
Insulting slang terms with example sentences, notes and quizzes, with answers. For ESL learners and teachers.
Oct 6, 2018 · The term 'control freak' has found its way into the English language as a standard phrase. It is pejorative, meaning that it is often used as a criticism. When we call someone a 'freak', we mean that they are somehow different from the norm, unusually controlling.
