akimbo

/ə'kimbou/

Friendly

Sure! Let's break down the word "akimbo" so it's easy to understand.

Definition:

Akimbo is an adjective and adverb that describes a position where the arms or legs are bent outward.

Usage Instructions:

• You can use "akimbo" to describe how people position their arms or legs. It's often used when someone is slightly irritated or confident, as in standing with hands on hips.

Examples:

1. Adjective:
   • "The teacher stood with her arms akimbo, ready to address the class."
2. Adverb:
   • "He walked into the room, arms akimbo, showing he was confident and ready to present."

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, "akimbo" can be used to convey a sense of attitude or posture that reflects confidence or defiance. For example: - "The manager surveyed the room with arms akimbo, demanding attention from the team."

Word Variants:

• There aren't many variants of "akimbo," but you can use it in different tenses depending on the context, like "stood akimbo," "was akimbo," etc.

Different Meaning:

• The primary meaning relates to posture. It does not have other meanings in English, but it can be used metaphorically to describe a person's attitude or demeanor.

Synonyms:

• While "akimbo" is quite specific, you might use phrases like:
  • "with arms out"
  • "hands on hips"
  • "legs spread" (for legs)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no common idioms or phrasal verbs that include "akimbo." However, it can be used in expressions that describe body language or confidence.

Summary:

"Akimbo" is a specific term used to describe a certain way of positioning arms or legs. It usually conveys a sense of confidence or readiness.

Academic

Adjective

1. (used of arms and legs) bent outward with the joint away from the body
   • a tailor sitting with legs akimbo
   • stood with arms akimbo

Adverb

1. with hands on hips and elbows extending outward
   • she stood there akimbo

Synonyms

• akimbo