| nimble | Origin: OE. Nimel, prob. Orig, quick at seizing, fr. Nimen to take, AS. Niman; akin to D. Nemen, G. Nehmen, OHG. Neman, Icel. Nema, Goth. Nima, and prob. To Gr. To distribute. Light and quick in motion; moving with ease and celerity; lively; swift. "Through the mid seas the nimble pinnace sails." (Pope) Nimble is sometimes used in the formation of self-explaining compounds; as, nimble-footed, nimble-pinioned, nimble-winged, etc. <botany> Nimble Will, a slender, branching, American grass (Muhlenbergia diffusa), of some repute for grazing purposes in the Mississippi valley. Synonym: Agile, quick, active, brisk, lively, prompt. Source: Websters Dictionary (01 Mar 1998) |
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