tenderfoot etymology

Etymology:

• Tender: Middle English "tender," from Old French "tendre," from Latin "tener," meaning "soft, easily hurt"
• Foot: Middle English "fot," from Old English "fōt," from Proto-Germanic "*fōtaz"

Meaning:

A tenderfoot is a person who is inexperienced, especially in a particular setting or activity. The term often carries connotations of naivety, clumsiness, or vulnerability.

Origin:

The term "tenderfoot" originated in the American West in the 19th century. It was initially used to describe inexperienced gold miners who had soft, tender feet from wearing inappropriate shoes. Over time, the term came to be applied more broadly to anyone who was new to a particular environment or activity.

Usage:

• "The tenderfoot was lost and vulnerable in the wilderness."
• "The new recruit was a complete tenderfoot when it came to military tactics."
• "He was a tenderfoot in the world of finance, but he quickly learned the ropes."

Related Terms:

• Greenhorn
• Newbie
• Amateur
• Novice

tenderfoot relate terms

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• tenderfoot

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