Pronunciation: [tˈaɡd ˈaftə] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "tagged after" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable "tagged" is pronounced as /tæɡd/, with a voiced alveolar plosive /ɡ/ followed by a dental fricative /d/. The second syllable "after" is pronounced as /æftər/, with a short vowel /æ/ and a voiced dental fricative /ð/ followed by a schwa /ə/ and an alveolar tap /r/. Together, the word is pronounced as /tæɡd æftər/.
"Tagged after" is a phrase that is commonly used to describe the act of following someone closely or remaining in their presence. This expression is often used figuratively and is not to be confused with the act of physically attaching a tag to someone or something. Instead, it conveys the idea of closely shadowing or imitating someone's actions or behavior.
The term "tagged after" can also be synonymous with "being under someone's influence or guidance." It implies that an individual is emulating, copying, or trying to keep up with someone else's actions, ideas, or style. This phrase is frequently employed when discussing celebrities, influential figures, or role models who have a large following of people attempting to imitate their lifestyle or replicate their success.
The origin of this phrase likely stems from the practice of children playing "tag," a game where one person is chosen as "it" and must chase and touch others to transfer this designation. The individual who is "it" must pursue others closely to successfully "tag" them. In a similar sense, when someone is said to be "tagged after" another person, it suggests that they are closely following or imitating them.
In a broader context, "tagged after" refers to the act of becoming associated or linked to someone or something, regardless of the intention behind it. This association can be due to personal choice, admiration, or even coercion, indicating a close proximity or connection between the two parties involved.
The phrase "tagged after" does not have a specific etymology since it is a combination of two individual words. However, we can look at the etymology of each word separately.
1. Tagged:
The term "tagged" comes from the Middle English word "tagge", which meant a "narrow hanging part". It originates from Old Norse "tagg" meaning "point, prong, or barb". Over time, "tagged" evolved to refer to attaching or affixing something to an object, often involving labels or markers.
2. After:
The word "after" comes from the Old English word "æfter", meaning "behind", "in pursuit of", or "later in time". It traces back to the Proto-Germanic word "*aftera", related to the Latin "ad" meaning "to" or "towards".
