scrannel etymology

Etymology

The word "scrannel" is derived from the Middle English word "scranel," meaning "thin" or "lean." It may also have originated from the Old Norse word "skrann," which means "shrill" or "piercing."

Meaning

Scrannel is an adjective that primarily means:

  • Thin, bony, or lean
  • Emaciated or withered
  • Feeble or weak

It can also have a more figurative meaning, describing something that is:

  • Worthless or insignificant
  • Contemptible or despicable

Origin

The earliest known use of the word "scrannel" in English dates back to the 14th century. It was initially used to describe a thin or bony person but gradually expanded to include other meanings.

Examples of Usage

  • "He was a scrannel wretch, with eyes like a hawk and a voice like a crow."
  • "The flowers were scrannel and withered, their petals long gone."
  • "The scrannel excuse he gave for his lateness was met with contempt."

scrannel relate terms

  • scrawny

    Etymology Old Norse skrǫggr meaning thin skinny Meaning thin bony and lacking

  • scrannel

    Etymology The word scrannel is derived from the Middle English word scranel meaning

  • ballpark

    Etymology The term ballpark originated in the 19th century from the early days of baseb

  • replenish

    Etymology Latin replenire to fill up again re prefix meaning back plenus

  • pretty

    Etymology Old English prættig Middle English prettie Meaning Physically attra

  • nature

    Etymology The word nature ultimately derives from the Latin word natura which means

  • compass

    Etymology Old French compas Latin compassus stride Vulgar Latin compassare to

  • disease

    Etymology Middle English disease from Old French desese from Latin dis aese not

  • career

    Etymology Late Middle English cariere from Anglo Norman French cariere from Old Fren

  • priest

    Etymology The word priest derives from the Greek word presbyteros meaning elder or