gainly etymology

Etymology:

  • From Middle English gainli, from Old English gēne, meaning "meet, convenient, suitable."
  • Related to the Old English word genohan, meaning "to suffice, be enough."

Meaning:

  • Clumsy, awkward.
  • Lacking grace or agility.

Origin:

The word "gainly" was first used in the English language around the 13th century. It originally meant "suitable" or "convenient," but over time it came to mean "clumsy" or "awkward." This shift in meaning is likely due to the fact that someone who is not coordinated or graceful may seem out of place or unsuitable.

Usage:

Today, the word "gainly" is used to describe people, animals, or things that are clumsy or awkward. It can also be used to describe a situation that is difficult to handle or navigate.

Examples:

  • The giant bear moved gainly through the forest, its massive paws crushing the undergrowth.
  • The waiter gainly carried the tray of food across the crowded restaurant, trying not to spill any of the dishes.
  • The company's financial situation was gainly, with debt piling up and revenue declining.

gainly relate terms

  • gain

    Etymology Anglo French gaignerie profit Middle French gaignier to earn Old French ga

  • gain

    Etymology Anglo French gaignerie profit Middle French gaignier to earn Old French ga

  • ungainly

    Etymology Origin Middle English ungaynly c 1300 Meaning clumsy or unwieldy D

  • crucible

    Etymology Old French creuset Late Latin crucibulum a diminutive of crux cross Latin

  • liberty

    Etymology From Middle English libertee from Old French liberté ultimately from Latin

  • miracle

    Etymology The word miracle traces its origins to the late Latin term miraculum mean

  • sand

    Etymology The word sand comes from the Old English word sand which is thought to be

  • tabernacle

    Etymology The word tabernacle comes from the Latin word tabernaculum which means t

  • kite

    Etymology The word kite comes from the Middle English word kite which itself is der

  • kettle

    Etymology The word kettle derives from the Old English word cetel which referred to

  • cocktail

    Etymology The word cocktail is believed to have originated from the French word coque