Riddance Meaning and Definition
Riddance
Pronunciation
/ˈrɪdəns/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A welcome or relief from something annoying, troublesome, or unwanted.
Etymology
From Middle English ridens, derived from Old English riddan, “to drive away” or “to remove.”
Usage Notes
Riddance is often used in informal contexts to express gratitude or satisfaction at getting rid of something undesirable, such as a person, a problem, or an obligation.
Additional Information
Riddance is an ancient concept that has been present in various cultures throughout history. In many societies, getting rid of something unwanted or undesirable is seen as a necessary and welcome event. For example, the ancient Greeks used the word “dike” to describe the act of driving away or banishing something.
Today, riddance is used in a variety of contexts, from everyday conversations to literature and popular culture. Despite its widespread use, however, the concept of riddance remains an important part of many cultures and societies.
Cultural References
Riddance has been featured in various forms of media, including literature, music, and film. For example, the phrase “Riddance riddance riddance” is a popular refrain in the song “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)” by Green Day.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Bid each other adieu in riddance (goodbye, farewell)
- Good riddance (welcoming the end of something unpleasant)
Related Words or Phrases
- Relief
- Freedom
- Disposal
Collocations
- Riddance of a problem
- Riddance from a difficult situation
- Riddance of an unwanted thing
Frequency of Use
Riddance is a relatively rare word in modern language, but it has been gaining popularity in recent years due to its versatility and emotional resonance.
Common Misspellings
- Ridens
- Reidance