The idiom "henpecked" has an interesting origin, meaning, and usage:
Origin
The term "henpecked" originates from the behaviour of hens. In a flock of chickens, a hen might peck at another, particularly the rooster, to assert dominance or to control certain situations. This pecking behavior is often observed among domestic poultry where hens might aggressively peck at each other or at the rooster.
Meaning
The idiom "henpecked" refers to a man who is dominated or controlled by his wife or partner. It suggests that the man is submissive and frequently overruled or nagged by his wife.
Usage
"Henpecked" is typically used in a somewhat humorous or derogatory manner to describe a man perceived as excessively compliant to his wife's demands. For example:
- "John does everything his wife says; he's so henpecked."
- "He can't come out tonight, his wife won't let him—he's completely henpecked."
The idiom carries a negative connotation, implying a lack of masculinity or assertiveness on the part of the man. While it can be used lightly among friends, it can be offensive if used seriously or with ill intent.
