Limn
/lɪm/noun
To depict or describe something in words or images.
Did you know?In medieval manuscripts, limning was closely associated with illuminating decorated letters and images, linking writing, painting, and the sacred power of light.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*leuk-
“To shine or be bright”
Ancient Greek
Greek
leukos
“Bright or white”
Classical Latin
Latin
lumen
“Light or a source of light”
Classical Latin
Latin
illuminare
“To light up or illuminate”
Middle English
English
enluminen
“To decorate or illustrate a manuscript, especially with bright colors”
14th Century
English
limnen
“To depict, portray, or describe”
Modern English
English
limn
“To represent or describe precisely”