arms length etymology

Etymology

The term "armslength" is derived from the following sources:

• arm (noun): a person's upper limb
• length (noun): the measurement of something from end to end

Meaning

"Armslength" means to maintain a certain distance or separation between oneself and another person or thing, both physically and metaphorically. It suggests a distance that is neither too close nor too far, allowing for a degree of independence and detachment.

Origin

The earliest known use of "armslength" dates back to the early 16th century. It was initially used in a literal sense to describe the appropriate distance between two people during a duel or other physical confrontation. Over time, it evolved to encompass a broader range of meanings, including:

• Physically: Keeping a safe or appropriate distance from someone to avoid physical contact
• Figuratively: Maintaining emotional or psychological distance to prevent becoming too entangled or involved
• Legally: Acting in a way that avoids conflicts of interest or undue influence

Today, "armslength" is commonly used in various contexts, including business, law, and international relations, to denote situations where parties must operate with a degree of independence and avoid bias or favouritism.

arms length relate terms

• length

  Etymology From Middle English length from Old English lencð from Proto Germanic la

• long

  Etymology The word long comes from the Proto Indo European root leng meaning to stre

• fathom

  Etymology The word fathom derives from the Old English word fæðm which originally

• brace

  Etymology The word brace has several etymological roots Middle English brace de

• couch

  Etymology The word couch comes from the Old French couche meaning bed or place t

• embrace

  Etymology Embrace Old French embracier from Late Latin imbracchiare from Latin im in

• armory

  Etymology Old French armurerie Latin armatura armor Proto Indo European _ h₂er

• meter

  Etymology The word meter originates from the Greek word métron meaning measure I

• kit cat

  Etymology The term kit cat has two possible etymologies From the Kit Cat Club A gro

• laugh

  Etymology The word laugh comes from the Middle English word laghchen which in turn d

• supplication

  Etymology The word supplication comes from the Latin word supplicare which means to