smeddum

/ ˈsmɛdəm /

noun

1. any fine powder
2. spirit or mettle; vigour

Word History and Origins

Origin of smeddum¹

Old English smedema fine flour

Example Sentences

It wasn't your father—he hasn't the smeddum of a flea—but he wouldn't send you to do what he dassn't do himself.

From Project Gutenberg

He'll want smeddum and manly discipline; that's the stuff to make the soldier.

From Project Gutenberg