aplomb etymology

Etymology:

• French: aplomb, from
• Old French: à plomb, literally "with lead"

Meaning:

• Poise, confidence, self-assurance
• Verticality; a position perpendicular to the ground

Origin:

The origin of "aplomb" is related to the use of a plumb line or plumb bob, a weight suspended from a string that is used to determine verticality. In carpentry and construction, a plumb line is used to ensure that walls, posts, and other structures are truly vertical.

In the 16th century, the phrase "à plomb" began to be used figuratively to describe someone who was well-balanced and confident. This usage likely arose from the association of verticality with stability and uprightness. By the 17th century, "aplomb" had become an established term in English, used to describe someone who is self-assured and capable.

aplomb relate terms

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• cool

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• poise

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• equanimity

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• calm

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• clam

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• bravo

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• folly

  Etymology The word folly is derived from the Old French word folie which itself is d

• betray

  Etymology The word betray comes from the Old French word betreier which in turn come

• shark

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