When Did The Idiom Flock Together First Appear Historically?

2025-08-24 02:32:33 345

4 Answers

Oliver
Oliver
2025-08-27 05:45:47
I love how small sayings carry big history. The phrase 'flock together' as part of the proverb we use today solidified in English roughly in the mid-1500s — you can find it in proverb collections from that era. But the notion itself is far older: ancient writers and medieval proverb books express the same basic truth, just with different words.

So, the exact English wording is about five hundred years old, while the sentiment stretches back much further. It’s one of those sayings that feels ancient because humans have noticed the pattern for ages.
Parker
Parker
2025-08-27 20:58:45
I get a kick out of how a simple metaphor travels through time. For 'flock together', the core thought—people of similar tastes, habits, or status gravitate to one another—is universal. In terms of written history, the phrase in English crops up around the mid-1500s. Collections of proverbs from that century, especially those circulated in England, record versions that look a lot like the modern saying.

Beyond English, nearly every European language has a cousin of the phrase: French, German, Latin-based sayings that carry the same image. That suggests that while the exact English wording crystallized in the 16th century, the idea was part of folk wisdom long before that. Today the expression feels immediate because it neatly captures social dynamics I keep noticing in forums, game lobbies, and coffee shops—people naturally group by taste.
Grayson
Grayson
2025-08-28 20:55:38
I'm the sort of person who loves the etymology rabbit holes, so I looked into this one properly. The idiom as we recognize it in English—commonly rendered 'birds of a feather flock together' or shortened to 'flock together'—was fixed into print in the mid-16th century. Notable early attestations appear in proverb collections from that period; John Heywood's compilation from the 1540s is frequently mentioned by scholars as preserving many such popular sayings. The Oxford English Dictionary and other historical lexica cite those mid-1500s usages when tracing the phrase's entry into English literature.

However, etymology-wise it's important to separate the exact phrase from the underlying concept. The idea that like associates with like is ancient: classical authors, medieval scribes, and early modern proverb-makers all produced similar maxims. So the idiom's modern English wording is roughly 500 years old, but its philosophical and social core is much older—think centuries of human observation given different verbal forms across languages. Whenever I teach or chat about this with friends, that split between wording-history and idea-history always fascinates me.
Noah
Noah
2025-08-30 13:31:15
I've always loved digging into where everyday sayings come from, and this one has a surprisingly long trail. The idea behind 'flock together'—usually heard as 'birds of a feather flock together'—is very old: different cultures have expressed the same notion for centuries, that similar people tend to group. In English, the earliest written traces show up in the mid-1500s, and scholars often point to collections of proverbs from that era as the place it became fixed in print.

If you like specifics, John Heywood's well-known compilation, published in the 1540s and often cited in discussions of English proverbs, contains early versions of this sentiment. Lexicographers like the editors of the Oxford English Dictionary trace the phrase's appearance in English back to roughly that mid-16th-century window, after which it became common in both speech and literature. But I also like to think about the older echoes — Greek and Latin writers and medieval proverb-books have close parallels, showing the idea existed long before the exact English wording. It’s one of those expressions that feels both ancient and freshly true whenever you hear it.
View All Answers
Scan code to download App

Related Books

When We First Met
When We First Met
Catalina Caressa Marisol Ziva, a girl who was abused since a very tender age of six. Going through the trauma she does, it makes it difficult for her to trust anyone and she is terrified of anyone she doesn't know. In one of her torturous days, she comes face to face with her mate. Terrified of the outcomes, combined with the life she led, she does one thing that comes to her mind! She runs! Runs away from her mate and pack and vanishes without a trace! No one knows where she is or how she is, they only know that she is alive! Roscoe Fraser Aurelio Cedar, the Alpha of the Silver Moon pack has always been taught to love, protect and care for his mate. He is taught that a mate is to be treated with atmost respect. He has been searching for his mate for years now. When he comes face to face with his mate and she runs away from him, he is left heartbroken, thinking his mate doesn't want him. Not completely knowing why his mate ran away, he tries to find her but the more the time passes, the more he loses hope. Little did he know that his mate will be before him in the unexpected hour. Catalina has till date regretted her decision of running away from her mate. She searches everywhere she can for him. Will she be able to find him ever? Will he forgive her for running away from him, if she does find him? Will they find love in each other?
Not enough ratings
22 Chapters
When the Act Ended, So Did the Marriage
When the Act Ended, So Did the Marriage
My husband, Gavin Chapman, is giving his secretary, Natasha Gardner, exactly what she wants. He's making her his wife. To pull it off, he fakes a lab accident, pretends to have amnesia, and brings her home. In his office, Gavin wraps his arms around Natasha and murmurs indulgently, "Not just Mrs. Chapman. Even if you want to pretend to be the vice president for a week, I'll let you." My eyes dim, but I let the lie go on. The next day, at a press conference, Gavin holds Natasha's hand and tells the world she's his real wife. He even threatens to kick me out of the company and take over all my research data. Dozens of cameras swivel toward me, waiting for my outburst. But I stay silent and simply sign the termination papers. Gavin doesn't know that the pharmaceutical project he believes will be done in seven days isn't quite finished. There's still one final step, and I'm the only one who knows how to do it.
9 Chapters
"He saw me when no one did"
"He saw me when no one did"
Somewhere between staying silent and screaming for help… she existed. Seventeen-year-old Maren has mastered the art of disappearing in plain sight. Haunted by past trauma, locked in a toxic relationship she can't escape, and drowning under the pressure of school and a world that never cared to understand her, she begins to wonder if life is even worth staying for. No one sees her pain—until he does. The new boy, Kade, has his own shadows. He’s blunt, observant, and completely unafraid to call her out—making him an instant enemy. But when he overhears a moment no one was meant to witness, he realizes the truth: the girl everyone overlooks is barely holding on. As Kade steps deeper into her shattered world, their connection becomes a lifeline. But secrets run deeper than he imagined, and when Maren goes missing, no one believes she’s worth finding—except him. Fighting time, silence, and the lies that built her cage, Kade refuses to give up. Because sometimes, saving someone means proving they were never invisible at all. A heartbreaking, haunting, and ultimately hopeful story about survival, truth, and what it really means to be seen.
Not enough ratings
9 Chapters
Only When I Died Did He Go Insane
Only When I Died Did He Go Insane
It had been ten years, and Ethan—my mate—and I still didn’t have a pup. One day, he suggested we adopt one from the Werewolf Orphan Charity Agency. “My mate,” he said gently, “pregnancy is too hard for you. You’d have to go through so many checkups and herbs. Your wolf shouldn’t have to suffer like that.” When others heard this, they all said Ethan loved me deeply—that he couldn’t bear to see me in pain. But I saw the truth with my own eyes. He took an infant pup from another she-wolf. “Luckily, Mia isn’t pregnant,” he said. “That way, the excuse of adopting an infant works—and the pup can have a legitimate status in my clan.” I knew that she-wolf well. The same one Ethan used to call a “stupid omega.” Swallowing the bitterness in my heart, I called my mentor at the Werewolf Research Academy. “I want to devote myself to herb research,” I said calmly. Three days from now, during the pup’s first New Moon blessing, I’ll fake my death in a fire. No one will be able to stop me.
10 Chapters
Trapped Together
Trapped Together
Jake Ryan had been best friends with Jay Morgan since they were in middle school. Jake had always valued being an only sibling, especially when Jay’s younger sister, Rachel, was always in the picture. Her personality always rubbed Jake the wrong way, and the fact that she always had to butt into her big brother’s business annoyed him more than he could say. Rachel, on the other hand, had way too much fun bothering Jake, he let it be known that she always rubbed him wrong, and she took great joy in making sure to always let it happen. Even after their drunk, and oh stupid night, she still teased him. But when the Jake came to be her personal one man rescue mission to help her out of a blizzard, she wanted no part of it. And a few minutes too long of arguing and annoying each other meant that they were stuck in her family cabin until help came, if they came. What could happen with two people, who clearly hated each other, were forced to spend the unknown amount of hours together? Could they get over the bickering along enough to figure out how to get help? Could they actually pull together and work through their problems? Better yet, could they finally stop denying the attraction they’ve both buried since high school?
Not enough ratings
16 Chapters
TOGETHER FOREVER
TOGETHER FOREVER
"Together Forever" is a heartwarming tale of love, resilience, and the power of human connection. Set in the picturesque town of Willowbrook, it follows the lives of two individuals, Emily and Ryan, who find themselves drawn to each other amidst life's challenges. Emily, a talented artist with a troubled past, is trying to rebuild her life and rediscover her passion for art. Ryan, a compassionate and dedicated doctor, is coping with personal loss while striving to make a difference in the lives of his patients. When their paths cross unexpectedly, a deep connection forms between them, leading to a journey of healing and self-discovery. As Emily and Ryan navigate their own emotional landscapes, they realize the importance of cherishing every moment and finding solace in the presence of someone who understands their pain. Together, they embark on a transformative journey, supporting each other through life's ups and downs. Their love blossoms against all odds, but they soon face a series of unforeseen challenges that test the strength of their bond. With determination and unwavering support, Emily and Ryan find the courage to confront their pasts and embrace the future, discovering that true love can withstand any storm. "Together Forever" is a poignant exploration of the complexities of relationships, highlighting the transformative power of love, forgiveness, and the indomitable human spirit. Through its beautifully crafted narrative, the book celebrates the resilience of the human heart and reminds us that, no matter the obstacles, love can endure and prevail. In a world where everything can change in an instant, Emily and Ryan's story serves as a reminder to cherish the present and hold onto the ones we love, for it is in togetherness that we find strength, hope, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow
Not enough ratings
7 Chapters

Related Questions

What Games Feature Donkey Kong And Funky Kong Together?

3 Answers2025-10-22 22:20:46
Funky Kong has always brought his own unique flair to the world of Donkey Kong, and it's a delight to see him team up with the legendary ape in various games! One of the standout titles featuring both characters is 'Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze.' This game reintroduces Funky as a playable character with cool surfing abilities, which adds a whole new twist to the platforming mechanics. I love how they incorporated his unique skills into the gameplay, allowing players to navigate tricky levels in a stylish way. The vibrant visuals and catchy soundtrack simply enhance the experience, making it a joy to dive into every time. Another fantastic title is 'Mario Kart 8 Deluxe,' where Funky Kong appears as a racer alongside Donkey Kong. This game holds a special place in my heart because the competition is fierce, and racing with these two characters is a blast! Funky has gained a reputation as one of the best characters in the game due to his impressive speed stats, making him a favorite among the competitive community. Racing through Rainbow Road with friends while blasting music and dodging those pesky shells just cannot be beaten! Of course, we can't forget the classic 'Donkey Kong 64!' while Funky isn't a playable character, he pops up as a shopkeeper, providing access to items and abilities crucial for the game. His laid-back persona adds a lighthearted vibe to the adventure, and those interactions bring back fond memories of exploring the vibrant 3D world. It's always fun to see how these characters evolve across different games, and their camaraderie brings a special charm to the D.K. universe.

What Episodes Feature Naruto And Tenten Together?

3 Answers2025-10-13 13:55:13
In the 'Naruto' series, it’s interesting to see how different characters interact with one another, especially Tenten and Naruto. While there isn't a strong romantic subplot between them, they do share some moments, particularly in the earlier arcs. One notable episode is in 'The Last: Naruto the Movie,' where they all come together for the big battle against the moon's threat. It’s not solely focused on them, but you can feel the camaraderie. Tenten’s fighting style even complements Naruto’s, creating a powerful team dynamic. Additionally, in the 'Chūnin Exams' arc, there was a time when they fought alongside each other, showcasing their abilities. It's always fun seeing the Supporting Characters shine in the spotlight, even if it’s just momentarily. The 'Boruto: Naruto Next Generations' series continues to highlight friendships from the original. In particular, during the episodes that feature flashbacks to Naruto's days as a young ninja, you’ll notice Tenten cheering him on, showing her support. It’s moments like these that subtly reinforce the team spirit among ninjas in Konoha, reminding us of their collective journeys, even if Naruto is just a bit more of a fan favorite. I always appreciate these well-crafted interactions because they add depth to an already rich storyline. Plus, the nostalgia factor is real! Going back to the earlier episodes, 'Naruto vs. Sasuke' provides another chance for Naruto and Tenten to be in the same scene. While they don’t engage much with one another directly, being in such a critical episode where everyone’s teaming up against a higher power emphasizes their shared purpose. It gives you that exhilarating feeling of unity and friendship that is so central to the series. Overall, Tenten’s character adds a unique flair to the team dynamics amongst Naruto’s crew, which makes rewatching these episodes all the more enjoyable!

What Movies Feature Batman And Batman Together?

3 Answers2025-08-31 06:27:51
I get this question in so many fandom chats — people love the idea of two Batmen running around the same story. If you mean literal, onscreen Batmen from different continuities meeting in a movie, the clearest modern example is the theatrical blockbuster 'The Flash' (2023). That film actually brings together Michael Keaton's classic Batman and Ben Affleck's DCEU Batman in the same story, so you get two very different Bruce Waynes sharing scenes and beats. If you broaden the idea to animated features and movies that play with parallel-universe versions or counterparts (think ‘‘Batman vs. an evil analogue’’), there are a few neat entries. 'Justice League: Crisis on Two Earths' (2010) gives us Batman facing Owlman — an alternate-universe mirror of Batman — so it scratches that “two Batmen” itch in a different way. Likewise, 'Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox' (2013) centers on Thomas Wayne as an alternate Batman (it’s not two Batmen in the same timeline, but it’s a famous example of a different person in the Batsuit). Then there are films that riff on the many incarnations of Batman in a cameo-heavy or meta way: 'The LEGO Batman Movie' (2017) is all about Batman tropes and nods to decades of Bat-versions, so while it doesn’t have two live-action Batmen duking it out, it gives you a collage of Batman ideas and references that feels like multiple Batmen in one place. If you want a deeper list (TV crossovers and animated shorts expand this a lot), tell me whether you want live-action-only, animated-only, or any multiverse/alternate-Bat examples.

What Themes Are Explored In Happy Together Wong Kar Wai?

1 Answers2025-10-10 22:16:03
Wong Kar Wai's 'Happy Together' is such a stunning piece of cinema that delves deep into the complexities of love and relationships. The film's exploration of romantic disconnection is nothing short of profound. I mean, it’s beautifully shot, but what really pulls at my heartstrings is the way it dives into the emotional turmoil between the two main characters, Lai Yiu-fai and Ho Po-wing. They share this intense yet toxic love that is both captivating and heartbreaking. It's like watching a dance where they just can't seem to find the right rhythm, which ends up speaking volumes about how love can be both exhilarating and painful. One of the standout themes is the idea of longing and separation. The film draws a stark contrast between the vibrancy of Buenos Aires, where much of it is set, and the internal isolation the characters experience. The way the cinematography captures both the beauty of the city and the characters’ emotional states creates this incredible atmosphere of yearning. Lai’s character is often seen lingering in emptiness, reflecting on what he’s lost, and that resonates with anyone who has ever been in a complicated relationship. It really had me thinking about how we often feel more alone even in a crowd, something many of us can relate to. Another fascinating theme is the exploration of identity. Wong Kar Wai brilliantly combines personal struggles with broader issues, like the idea of home and belonging. Lai and Ho's journey is as much about finding each other as it is about finding themselves. They are both searching for connection, not just with one another but also within themselves. It’s like they are on this continuous loop of trying to figure out who they are without each other, which is so relatable in the context of love. Who hasn’t wondered how much of their identity is tied up in their relationships? Lastly, I can’t help but appreciate how Wong Kar Wai uses time as a narrative device. The nonlinear storytelling really accentuates feelings of nostalgia and regret, which might be why I found myself lost in thought long after the credits rolled. The jumping timelines feel like memories themselves—fragmented and disjointed, yet filled with emotion. It cleverly shows how the past deeply impacts the present, making us reflect on our own experiences with love and heartache. Overall, 'Happy Together' is not just a film about a relationship; it’s an emotional exploration of universal themes like loneliness, identity, and the bittersweet nature of love. There’s so much raw feeling packed into each frame that it left me aching and contemplative. It’s one of those movies that you just have to experience for yourself, as Wong Kar Wai’s unique storytelling breathes life into these intricate emotions in a way that feels so very real.

Which Shidou X Sae(Blue Lock)Fanfiction Explores Their Emotional Growth Together?

4 Answers2025-05-09 04:22:15
I’ve come across a lot of 'Blue Lock' fanfics, but the ones that really stick with me are those that dive deep into Shidou and Sae’s emotional growth. One standout story has them navigating their rivalry and slowly realizing how much they’ve influenced each other. It starts with them clashing on the field, but as the story progresses, they begin to understand their shared drive for perfection. The writer does an amazing job of showing how their competitive nature evolves into mutual respect. There’s a scene where Sae opens up about the pressure of being a prodigy, and Shidou, surprisingly, relates in his own chaotic way. The fic also explores their off-field dynamics, like late-night conversations and shared training sessions, which add layers to their relationship. It’s not just about soccer; it’s about two people pushing each other to grow, both as players and as individuals. Another aspect I love is how the fic handles their emotional vulnerabilities. Shidou’s brash exterior hides a lot of insecurities, and Sae’s stoic demeanor masks his fear of failure. The story doesn’t shy away from these complexities. Instead, it uses their interactions to peel back those layers. There’s a particularly touching moment where Shidou admits he’s always felt overshadowed, and Sae responds by acknowledging his own struggles with isolation. The fic balances their intense personalities with moments of quiet introspection, making their growth feel authentic. It’s a must-read for anyone who loves character-driven stories.

Is There Official Merchandise Featuring Chrollo X Kurapika Together?

5 Answers2025-08-24 00:03:03
I was digging through my shelf the other day and realized how much of my 'Hunter x Hunter' collection is group-based rather than ship-specific—it's the same with Chrollo and Kurapika. Officially, you can find them together on ensemble items: character sets, posters, acrylic stands, and some artbook spreads where multiple characters appear in one image. Those are produced by the anime licensors or Jump-related shops, so they’re legit merch but not created to promote any romantic pairing. If you want something that screams "Chrollo x Kurapika" as a pair (like a cute doujinshi-style print or matching charms made for the ship), you're almost always in fan territory. I pick up a lot of custom items at conventions and on Pixiv BOOTH—artists there will sell duo goods that look ship-specific. Official resources worth checking are the Jump Shop, Good Smile Company's product lists, and the 'Hunter x Hunter' artbooks or anniversary prints. For now I enjoy mixing official group pieces with fan-made pairings on my display; it feels like curating my own little story.

How Do Robin And Luffy Handle Major Battles Together?

3 Answers2025-08-24 21:14:02
Watching them cooperate in big fights always gives me goosebumps — it's this weird mix of instinctive chaos and quiet, surgical control. Luffy is the runaway hurricane: he charges, trades punches, and forces the enemy to commit. Robin is the scalpel that appears in the middle of that storm, sprouting hands and limbs to hold, pry, and expose weak points. In practice that means Robin will often neutralize or isolate a dangerous threat from a distance while Luffy closes in to land the decisive, earth-shattering blows. Her reach and ability to create large constructs mean she can snatch away weapons, pin big opponents, or create cover, which buys Luffy the seconds he needs to set up a Gear move or put his Haki into overdrive. Beyond raw abilities, their dynamic is built on trust and rhythm. Luffy doesn't over-explain; he trusts Robin to do what's necessary and Robin trusts Luffy not to hesitate. That trust shows up when Robin quietly gives tactical info — whether it's picking off a sniper, pinning down a foe for interrogation, or making a bridge with extra arms — and Luffy reacts, sometimes wildly, but always effectively. I still get chills thinking about the way their teamwork shifts when stakes go from physical to emotional: Luffy’s all-out style plus Robin’s composed decisiveness makes them a duo that can handle both muscle-and-mind threats. If you’re into how teams form combos, their fights are a masterclass in role specialization: Luffy primes and breaks enemy lines, Robin constrains and strategizes, and together they turn chaotic brawls into controlled finishes. It’s not always flashy in the same way as two heavy hitters trading blows, but it's deeply satisfying to watch — like watching a perfect tag-team move in slow motion, with both of them improvising off each other's instincts.

Could Morgoth And Sauron Defeat Other Dark Lords Together?

3 Answers2025-08-27 02:34:12
I've lost count of how many times I've fallen down the rabbit hole of 'The Silmarillion' and then tried to map that lore onto other fantasy villains—it's my late-night pastime with a mug of tea and a stack of dog-eared maps. If you picture Morgoth and Sauron teaming up, you have on one side the primordial, almost godlike force (Morgoth) whose influence in the world was direct and corrosive, and on the other a master planner and craftsman of domination (Sauron). Canonically, Morgoth poured his essence into Arda and became weaker in a literal sense, while Sauron is a Maia who excels at manipulation. Together they'd be complementary: Morgoth brings world-breaking scale, Sauron brings long-term subterfuge. From a purely Tolkienish perspective, the pair would trample most purely mortal dark lords—wizards, necromancers, tyrants—because the level of metaphysical authority Morgoth once held is on an entirely different circuit. But once you start inviting cross-universe matchups, it gets messier. The real blocker is incompatibility of metaphysical rules: beings like the Dark One from 'Wheel of Time' or cosmic entities from modern space opera operate under different laws. Morgoth's brute force might not translate if the opponent isn't bound to a shared cosmology. Practically, though, I keep coming back to psychology: Morgoth's pride and Sauron's appetite for control would make long-term cooperation unstable. Sauron historically served Morgoth and learned from him, yet he's also the schemer who survives by deceit. In short, together they'd be a terrifying coalition against enemies constrained by Arda-like rules, a nightmare to armies and kingdoms, but less guaranteed to beat metaphysical cosmic antagonists. Still, imagining them as a two-man tag team is one of those fan-theory delights I keep jotting down in margins of my books.
Explore and read good novels for free
Free access to a vast number of good novels on GoodNovel app. Download the books you like and read anywhere & anytime.
Read books for free on the app
SCAN CODE TO READ ON APP
DMCA.com Protection Status