Trifled Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈtrɪfəld/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A term used to describe something or someone that has been treated carelessly or with a lack of concern, often implying a sense of disrespect or frivolity.

Examples

• The manager trifled with the employee’s feelings, deciding not to promote them.
• She felt that her time had been trifled with when he showed up late to their meeting.

Synonyms

• Disregarded
• Dismissed

Antonyms

• Respected
• Valued

Additional Information

Trifling with someone’s feelings or time can lead to feelings of resentment and mistrust. It is essential to treat others with respect and care to maintain healthy relationships. In a professional setting, trifling with an employee’s time or efforts can lead to decreased productivity and morale. Conversely, valuing and respecting others can foster a positive and supportive environment.

Trifling can also be used to describe a Careless or lackadaisical attitude towards a task or responsibility. When someone trifles with a project, they may not put in the necessary effort or take it seriously, leading to subpar results.

Etymology

The word “trifled” originates from the Old French word “trifler,” meaning “to deceive” or “to cheat.” Over time, the meaning evolved to encompass a sense of carelessness or lack of concern.

Usage Notes

When using the word “trifled,” be mindful of the context and connotation. Trifling with someone’s feelings can be hurtful and disrespectful, while trifling with a task may imply a lack of effort or seriousness.

Cultural References

In literature, trifling is often used to describe the actions of characters who are careless or thoughtless in their treatment of others. For example, in Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice,” Mr. Wickham is accused of trifling with the affections of multiple women.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Trifling with someone’s affections: treating someone’s romantic feelings carelessly or without sincerity.

Related Words or Phrases

• Frivolous
• Flippant

Collocations

• trifled with time
• trifled with feelings

Frequency of Use

The word “trifled” is moderately common in modern language, often used in formal or professional contexts to convey a sense of disappointment or frustration.

Common Misspellings

• Trifel
• Trifelld