Limp
/lɪmp/noun
To walk with an uneven, weakened, or painful gait; also, weak or lacking stiffness.
Did you know?Unlike words such as “nightmare” or “disaster,” *limp* has no hidden demon or star-curse origin; it’s a straightforward Germanic word whose power comes from the physical image itself.
Etymological Timeline
Old English
OE
limpian
“to go limp, droop, or hang loosely”
Old English
OE
limp
“a fit or condition; something that befalls someone”
Proto-Germanic
PGmc
*limpaną
“to happen, befall; to be suitable or fit”
Middle English
ME
limp
“weak, flaccid, or lacking firmness; to walk with a weak gait”
Modern English
English
limp
“to walk with an uneven, weakened gait; lacking firmness or stiffness”