Doughface definitions
| Word backwards | ecafhguod |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | Noun |
| Syllabic division | dough-face |
| Plural | The plural of the word "doughface" is "doughfaces." |
| Total letters | 9 |
| Vogais (4) | o,u,a,e |
| Consonants (5) | d,g,h,f,c |
During the mid-19th century in American political history, the term doughface was used to describe a politician who was perceived as pliable or easily influenced, particularly in regard to issues of slavery. The term originated from the idea that such politicians were as impressionable as dough, easily molded by external pressures or interests.
Origins and Usage
The term doughface gained prominence during the decades leading up to the Civil War when tensions over slavery were at their peak. These politicians, often Democrats from Northern states, were accused of compromising their principles to avoid conflict with Southern politicians and preserve the fragile balance between free and slave states.
Characteristics
Characteristics of a doughface included a willingness to prioritize political expediency over moral conviction, a tendency to avoid taking a stand on contentious issues, and a desire to maintain relationships with both Northern abolitionists and Southern slaveholders.
Examples in History
Notable doughfaces in American history include individuals like James Buchanan, Franklin Pierce, and Stephen Douglas, who were criticized for their perceived lack of firmness on issues related to slavery. These politicians often faced backlash from both abolitionists and pro-slavery advocates for their perceived indecisiveness.
Overall, the term doughface serves as a reminder of the complex political dynamics and moral dilemmas that characterized the pre-Civil War era in the United States. It highlights the challenges faced by politicians during a time of deep division and emphasizes the importance of moral courage and steadfastness in the face of difficult decisions.
Doughface Examples
- The politician was seen as a doughface for constantly changing his position on important issues.
- Her smile was described as doughface, lacking any genuine emotion behind it.
- The actor's performance was criticized as being doughface, with little depth or authenticity.
- He tried to hide his nervousness with a doughface expression, but his sweaty palms gave him away.
- The contestant's fake humility came off as doughface to the judges.
- The CEO's doughface apology did little to convince the public of his sincerity.
- She plastered on a doughface smile for the family photo, but her eyes revealed her true feelings.
- The student's doughface excuse for not completing the assignment was not believable.
- The salesperson's doughface demeanor made customers wary of trusting her recommendations.
- The defendant's doughface expression throughout the trial made it difficult for the jury to gauge his guilt or innocence.