deft etymology

Etymology:

  • Old English: dēft
  • Proto-West Germanic: daftaz
  • Proto-Germanic: daptuz
  • Indo-European root: tap-, meaning "to seize, grasp"

Meaning:

  • Skilled, adroit, nimble
  • Appropriate, suitable

Origin:

The word "deft" originally referred to the physical ability to grasp or seize something firmly. Over time, its meaning expanded to include the ability to perform tasks with skill and precision. The word is often used to describe someone who is nimble, agile, or adept in their movements.

Examples:

  • The surgeon's deft hands made the operation seem effortless.
  • The pianist's deft fingers danced across the keys, creating a beautiful melody.
  • The politician's deft use of language persuaded the audience to support his cause.

deft relate terms

  • daft

    Etymology The word daft is derived from the Old Norse word dapr meaning agreeable

  • daffy

    Etymology The word daffy is derived from the Welsh word daffi meaning taffy a typ

  • Nice

    Etymology The word nice is derived from the Old French word nice which itself comes

  • deftly

    Etymology Old French def clever skillful Latin deptus mastered seized reach

  • deft

    Etymology Old English dēft Proto West Germanic daftaz Proto Germanic daptuz Indo Eu

  • prophet

    Etymology Ancient Greek προφήτης prophētēs Latin propheta Meaning A

  • sacrifice

    Etymology The word sacrifice originates from the Latin word sacrificium which is der

  • obvious

    Obvious Etymology Middle English obviouse from Latin obvius meaning in the way

  • society

    Etymology The word society comes from the Latin word societas which means associat

  • hilarity

    Etymology The word hilarity comes from the Latin word hilaris meaning cheerful or

  • dismal

    Etymology The word dismal originates from the Old French word dismaler meaning to s

  • vessel

    Etymology Middle English vessel from Anglo French vaissel vessel from Latin vas ge

  • trust

    Etymology The word trust comes from the Old English word treowe which means faithf