Meaning & Definition of word "Lame"

Lame

/leɪm/

verb:

  • 1. to make lame; to impair the mobility of a limb.
    • Example: The accident lamed the horse, making it unable to compete.

adjective:

  • 1. having a body part and especially a limb impaired or disabled.
    • Example: The dog was lame after it injured its leg.
  • 2. unable to walk normally because of an injury or illness affecting the leg or foot.
    • Example: He became lame after the accident and had to use a wheelchair.
  • 3. weak or ineffective; unsatisfactory.
    • Example: Her excuse for being late was really lame and hardly believable.
  • 4. not funny; stupid or boring.
    • Example: The joke was so lame that nobody laughed.

Etymology

Middle English 'lam', from Old English 'lama', related to Dutch 'lam', German 'lahm'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

lame excuse:

An excuse that is viewed as unsatisfactory or insufficient.

lame duck:

A person or entity that is ineffective or has lost power.

lamebrain:

A foolish or incompetent person.

Related Words

lame duck:

A politician or official whose power is diminished, often because their term is ending.

lamebrain:

A person who is silly or foolish.

Slang Meanings of lame

Meaning: Used to describe something that is considered dull or unexciting.

Example Sentence: That party was so lame, I left early.

Meaning: Referring to someone or something that is not cool or impressive.

Example Sentence: Don't be lame; join us for the concert!