gimp
1[ gimp ]
/ gɪmp /
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noun
a flat trimming of silk, wool, or other cord, sometimes stiffened with wire, for garments, curtains, etc.
a coarse thread, usually glazed, employed in lacemaking to outline designs.
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Origin of gimp
1First recorded in 1655–65; probably from Dutch gimp; further origin unknown
Other definitions for gimp (2 of 4)
gimp2
[ gimp ]
/ gɪmp /
noun Chiefly Northeastern U.S.
spirit, vigor, or ambition: She didn't have the gimp to look for a better job.
Origin of gimp
2First recorded in 1900–05; origin uncertain
Other definitions for gimp (3 of 4)
gimp3
[ gimp ]
/ gɪmp /
noun
a limp.
Usually Disparaging and Offensive. a term used to refer to a person who limps or is lame.
verb (used without object)
to limp; walk in a halting manner: a sprain that made her gimp for weeks.
Origin of gimp
3An Americanism dating back to 1920–25; origin uncertain
usage note for gimp
When describing someone who is lame, gimp is used with disparaging intent and perceived as insulting. But within the disability community, it is sometimes a term of self-reference.
OTHER WORDS FROM gimp
gimpy, adjectiveOther definitions for gimp (4 of 4)
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
How to use gimp in a sentence
Francis gimped out a moment later and gave him a solemn handshake.
Makers|Cory Doctorow
British Dictionary definitions for gimp (1 of 2)
gimp1
guimpe
/ (ɡɪmp) /
noun
a tapelike trimming of silk, wool, or cotton, often stiffened with wire
Word Origin for gimp
C17: probably from Dutch gimp, of unknown origin
British Dictionary definitions for gimp (2 of 2)
gimp2
/ (ɡɪmp) /
noun
US and Canadian offensive, slang a physically disabled person, esp one who is lame
slang a sexual fetishist who likes to be dominated and who dresses in a leather or rubber body suit with mask, zips, and chains
Word Origin for gimp
C20: of unknown origin
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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