Meaning & Definition of word "Limp"

Limp

/lɪmp/

noun:

  • 1. An uneven or weak way of walking.
    • Example: He walked with a noticeable limp after the surgery.
  • 2. A defect or impairment in the gait of a person or animal.
    • Example: The horse had a limp that concerned the veterinarian.

verb:

  • 1. To walk unevenly or with difficulty, typically because of injury or weakness in one leg.
    • Example: After twisting his ankle, he had to limp back home.
  • 2. To move in a way that suggests an uneven or weak gait.
    • Example: The injured dog limped along the path, searching for its owner.

adjective:

  • 1. Weak or lacking in firmness or strength.
    • Example: The plants looked limp after not being watered for a week.

Etymology

Middle English lempe, of unknown origin.

Common Phrases and Expressions

limp along:

To move or progress slowly.

limp handshake:

A weak handshake that suggests a lack of confidence.

Related Words

lame:

Unable to walk normally due to injury or disability.

hobble:

To walk in an awkward way, typically because of pain in the legs or feet.

Slang Meanings of limp

Meaning: To fail or perform poorly.

Example Sentence: The project really limped this quarter.

Meaning: To have a weak or ineffective performance.

Example Sentence: His last movie limped at the box office.