Word: tame

Associations

The word "tame" means to make something less wild or easier to control. It can refer to animals, plants, or even ideas and emotions.

• A farmer might tame a wild horse to be able to ride it. This means the horse learns to obey commands and is less aggressive.
• A parent may try to tame a child’s temper tantrum by using positive reinforcement. This means helping the child calm down and behave better.
• A gardener may tame a wild bush by pruning it. This means cutting the bush to control its growth and shape.

The synonym "domesticate" is similar but usually refers more specifically to animals that have adapted to live with humans. "Tame" can also refer to making something less wild in a more general sense.

Substitution

Other words you might use instead of "tame" are:

• Control: This word suggests having power over something, but it does not include the idea of making something friendly.
• Subdue: This word implies overcoming force or strength, often in a more aggressive way.
• Discipline: This word refers to training someone to obey rules but doesn't always involve making them less wild.

Deconstruction

The word "tame" comes from the Old English word "tam," which means "gentle" or "soft."

• There are no prefixes or suffixes in the word "tame."
• Linguistically, it has roots in words related to gentleness and domestication over time.

Inquiry

• How do you feel about pets? Have you tamed any animals or seen someone else do it?
• Can you think of a time when you needed to tame a strong emotion or reaction? How did you handle it?
• In what ways can people tame wild ideas or thoughts so they can express them more clearly?