nimble

As children, we learn some wonderful words without even realising the value that lives within them.

Do you recall the nursery rhyme, 'Jack be nimble, Jack be quick, Jack jump over the candlestick'?
The picture I remember is of a small boy with an eager expression on his face taking a run up to tall candlestick holding a lighted candle. The idea of him leaping over this candlestick was relatively daunting.


Nimble implies physical speed as well as dexterity, agility, skill at a specific task. It can also be applied to mental ability; as an alert, acute thinker and listener.

It originates from the Old English and holds three closely related concepts within the word. The source is the Old English verb 'niman' - to take which evolved into 'naeme' (quick to grasp) and numol (quick at seizing). 

All of these attributes were as relevant in those times and they are today.  Enjoy using the word!

Mire

Here is another apt, direct short word, one that can serve as a noun and a verb.

It finds it source in Old Norse and was first used in English in the late Middle Ages.

As a noun, the word means a marshy or boggy area of ground; a place where one is likely to become stuck in the mud and grime. Yes, dirt, mud and muck are clearly associated with mire.

As a verb, it means to become bogged or stuck in mud. It is a handy word to use if you need a metaphor for being bogged down in or by specific circumstances.


Look out for more four-letter words in future posts!

intransigent

This adjective means 'not willing to compromise'.

The addition of the prefix 'in' provides the negative which is neatly embedded in the word.

Taken from the Spanish in the 19th Century, 'los intransigentes' translates as 'the uncompromising ones' and was applied to a group of political extremists.

Its orgins lie in the Latin 'transigere' which means 'to settle'

This word is a splendid example of how new words are gathered into global usage and applied across general English language contexts.

sanctimonious

Depending on its context, this word carries a range of emotive responses to it.

Its meaning, 'affecting piety', confirms that some play-acting is taking place.

It is vital to read it as it stands, in a unique position, so that the emotive meaning is clear. It is one of those wonderful words that lend themselves to great vocal interpretation.

Arising from 'sanctity' in 17 Century Latin.