beast with two backs: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘beast with two backs’ mean?
The idiom "beast with two backs" refers to two people engaged in sexual intercourse.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "on the double" means to do something quickly or immediately.
The idiom "horizontal tango" is a euphemism for sexual intercourse.
The idiom "eye sex" refers to a non-verbal exchange of intense and suggestive looks between two people. It conveys a strong mutual attraction or flirtation, often described as a passionate gaze. This expression emphasizes the intensity of the visual connection rather than any physical or verbal interaction.
The idiom "extra pair of hands" refers to having additional help or assistance from someone. It signifies having someone to share or lighten the workload, particularly in tasks that require manual labor or physical effort.
The idiom "exchange flesh" is derived from the biblical story of Adam and Eve, where the concept of "flesh" refers to the physical body. It means to engage in sexual intercourse or have physical intimacy with another person.
The idiom "eat for two" means to eat a large amount of food, often to the point of overeating or indulging excessively. It is a colloquial expression used to describe someone who has a hearty appetite or enjoys eating without restraint.
The idiom "double-tongued" means being deceptive or dishonest by speaking with insincere or contradictory words.
The idiom "double over" means to bend forward at the waist due to extreme laughter or pain.
An idiom, *double booked*, means when someone accidentally schedules two or more appointments or events at the same time.
The idiom "double back" means to turn around and go back in the opposite direction. It is often used to describe a change in plans or a reversal of a previous decision.
Untamed Duo in Intimacy
The idiom "beast with two backs" is an archaic expression derived from William Shakespeare's play Othello. It refers to a sexual act involving two people engaging in intercourse while lying on their backs. The idiom's imagery vividly captures the physicality and intensity of sexual relations.
Shakespeare's use of the idiom in Othello is believed to be its origin. His intricate and poetic language often created new phrases and idioms that have endured in the English language. Although not commonly used today, the idiom has become a distinct cultural reference representing the act of sexual intercourse.
Due to its explicit nature and archaic language, the idiom "beast with two backs" is primarily found in literary and scholarly discussions. It is not socially acceptable for everyday conversation and is limited to specific contexts where Shakespeare's works are being analyzed or referenced.
Shakespeare's creation of this idiom reflects the cultural attitudes towards sex during the Elizabethan era. He explored and challenged societal norms, delving into themes of love, lust, and desire in his plays. The idiom serves as a powerful metaphor, conveying the physical and passionate nature of sexual relationships.
Although the idiom has fallen out of common usage, it remains a cultural reference studied and analyzed within the realm of literature and linguistics. It serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of Shakespeare's works, even centuries after their creation. The fluctuating nature of language also plays a role, with expressions and phrases going in and out of fashion throughout history.
on the double, horizontal tango, double-tongued, couldn't be more different, and double back are idioms related to the "beast with two backs". These idioms share a common thread with the concept of sexual intercourse, though they express it in different ways.
The phrase "on the double" is an idiomatic expression meaning to do something quickly or without delay. It conveys a sense of urgency and immediacy. When relating it to the idiom "beast with two backs", "on the double" could be seen as a more lighthearted and playful way of referring to the act of sexual intercourse.
The idiomatic expression "horizontal tango" is a euphemism for sexual intercourse. It humorously compares the physical movements of dancing, specifically the tango, to the movements involved during sex. Similarly to the idiom "beast with two backs", "horizontal tango" conveys the physicality and passion of sexual relations.
The idiom "double-tongued" refers to someone who speaks deceptively or with insincerity. It suggests that the person is saying one thing while meaning another. While not directly related to the act of sexual intercourse, "double-tongued" has a connection to the idiom "beast with two backs" through its use of the word "double", which implies a duality or hidden nature. This can be metaphorically linked to the secretive or private nature of sexual acts.
The phrase "couldn't be more different" is an idiomatic expression used to emphasize the contrast between two things. When related to the idiom "beast with two backs", "couldn't be more different" can be used to highlight the diverse ways in which sexual intercourse is referred to in different idioms and expressions.
The phrase "double back" is an idiomatic expression meaning to retrace one's steps or return to a previous point. It conveys the idea of reversal or going back to where one started. In the context of the idiom "beast with two backs", "double back" could be used figuratively to describe a sexual encounter involving partners who have previously had a relationship or history together.
These idioms and expressions offer different perspectives and nuances when discussing the concept of sexual intercourse. Although they may vary in tone and imagery, they all share a common connection to the physical and intimate nature of human relationships.
Example usage
"Beast with two backs" is an idiom that originated from Shakespeare's play Othello, and it refers to two people engaging in sexual intercourse. While this idiom is considered archaic and rarely used today, it can still be found in literary or historical contexts. Here are three examples of how it can be used:
- In the novel set in the 17th century, the young couple secretly snuck off into the woods and became a beast with two backs.
- During the Renaissance period, a scandalous painting of a noblewoman and her lover depicted them as a beast with two backs.
- The historical account described the wild party where the guests indulged in excessive drinking, dancing, and even being a beast with two backs.
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