Conclusion
The phrase “at someone’s beck and call” is a common idiom that is used to describe someone who is always ready and willing to do someone else’s bidding. This expression has been around for centuries and is still commonly used today. In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and associations of “at someone’s beck and call.”
Definitions
The idiom “at someone’s beck and call” means to be completely at someone’s service and ready to fulfill their every request. It implies that the person being described is always available and willing to do whatever is asked of them, no matter how inconvenient or difficult it may be.
Origin
The origin of the phrase “at someone’s beck and call” can be traced back to the Middle Ages. The word “beck” comes from the Old English word “becen,” which means “a gesture or signal.” In medieval times, a lord or master would summon their servants by making a hand gesture or nodding their head. The servants were expected to respond immediately and obey their master’s commands without question. Over time, the phrase “at someone’s beck and call” came to be used as a metaphor for this type of servitude.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, “at someone’s beck and call” means “ready to obey and serve someone at any time.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “completely at someone’s disposal, ready to do their bidding.”
Associations
The phrase “at someone’s beck and call” is often associated with subservience and a lack of autonomy. It implies that the person being described is not in control of their own time or decisions and is instead at the mercy of another person’s whims.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for “at someone’s beck and call” include “at someone’s service,” “at someone’s disposal,” “ready and willing,” and “obedient.”
Antonyms
Antonyms for “at someone’s beck and call” include “independent,” “self-sufficient,” “autonomous,” and “free.”
The same root words
The word “beck” is also used in the phrase “to give someone the cold shoulder,” which means to intentionally ignore or snub someone. This expression comes from the idea of turning one’s back on someone and giving them the “cold shoulder” instead of welcoming them with a warm embrace.
Example Sentences
Here are some example sentences that use the phrase “at someone’s beck and call”:
- She’s always at her boss’s beck and call, even on weekends.
- The hotel staff was at our beck and call throughout our entire stay.
- He expects his wife to be at his beck and call, but she’s starting to push back.
- The celebrity’s assistants are at her beck and call 24/7.
The phrase “at someone’s beck and call” is a common idiom that describes someone who is completely at someone else’s service and ready to fulfill their every request. It has been around for centuries and is still commonly used today. Understanding the meaning and associations of this phrase can help us better understand the dynamics of power and control in relationships.