limber
LIM-ber
/ˈlɪmbə(r)/
(adj) Flexible; (v) to warm up in preparation for exercise.
Often used to describe the state of being 'warmed up' and ready for action, rather than just a permanent trait.
The story behind the word. The origin is somewhat mysterious, but it appeared in the 16th century, possibly from the dialect word 'limp' meaning 'pliant'. It originally referred to the detachable front part of a gun carriage, which had to be flexible to turn corners.
Word relationships
- lithe: Lithe implies a thin, elegant grace; limber is more about being physically loose and ready.
- stiff: Rigid and difficult to move, often due to cold or lack of exercise.
Commonly confused with
- supple: Supple is often used for skin or materials; limber is almost exclusively for bodies and muscles.
Collocations
- limber up
- stay limber
- limber muscles
Example sentences
- "The athletes spent thirty minutes limbering up before the meet began." Pre-competition
- "He was a tall, limber man who moved with surprising grace." Description
Memory hook
To be limber, you must stretch your 'limbs'. Warmed up and loose.
When not to use
Less formal than 'flexible'; don't use in a medical report.
Fun facts
- In the military, to 'unlimber' a gun meant to disconnect it from its front wheels to prepare it for firing.
Related words
Also appears in
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