empty handed etymology

Etymology

The word "emptyhanded" is derived from two Old English words:

  • "empti" (adjective): meaning "empty"
  • "hand" (noun): meaning "hand"

Meaning and Origin

"Emptyhanded" means "without anything in one's hands" or "without any tangible possessions or resources." It originally referred to people going into battle without a weapon or other possessions.

In the early days of warfare, warriors would often carry their belongings with them into battle. However, some warriors chose to go into battle "emptyhanded", meaning they carried no weapons or supplies. This was seen as a sign of bravery and confidence, as it showed that the warrior was willing to rely on their own strength and skill rather than external aids.

Over time, the term "emptyhanded" also came to be used to describe people who are poor or who have nothing. This is because people who are poor often have little or no possessions, and therefore they are said to be "emptyhanded."

Usage

"Emptyhanded" is often used in the following contexts:

  • To describe people who are going into a situation without any resources or support.
  • To describe people who are poor or who have nothing.
  • To describe people who have failed to achieve something or who have come away with nothing.

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