Flatfooted: meaning, definitions and examples
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flatfooted
[ ˈflatˌfo͞otəd ]
physical condition
Flatfooted refers to a condition where an individual's arch in the foot does not develop normally, resulting in flat feet. This condition can lead to difficulty in walking and may cause discomfort or pain in the feet, knees, or back. It can also refer to a person caught off guard or unprepared for a situation.
Synonyms
clumsy, flat-footed, unprepared
Examples of usage
- He was flatfooted after the sudden announcement.
- She suffers from flatfootedness, making her running difficult.
- The officer was flatfooted by the unexpected turn of events.
medical condition
Flatfootedness can refer to a broader category of flat feet where the arches in the foot are absent. This condition may be congenital or develop over time, causing various levels of pain and mobility issues.
Synonyms
fallen arches, pes planus
Examples of usage
- His flatfooted condition requires special insoles.
- Many athletes struggle with flatfootedness.
- She was diagnosed with flatfootedness as a child.
Translations
Translations of the word "flatfooted" in other languages:
🇵🇹 descalço
🇮🇳 बेतरतीब
🇩🇪 plattfüßig
🇮🇩 kedua kaki datar
🇺🇦 плоскостопий
🇵🇱 płaskostopy
🇯🇵 扁平足
🇫🇷 pieds plats
🇪🇸 pies planos
🇹🇷 düz taban
🇰🇷 평발
🇸🇦 مسطح القدمين
🇨🇿 ploché nohy
🇸🇰 ploché nohy
🇨🇳 扁平足
🇸🇮 ravna stopala
🇮🇸 flatur fætur
🇰🇿 жаздық табан
🇬🇪 ბრტყელი ფეხები
🇦🇿 düz ayaq
🇲🇽 pies planos
Etymology
The term 'flatfooted' originates from the combination of 'flat', referring to the absence of an arch in the foot, and 'footed', which signifies having feet in a specific condition. The word 'flat' has an extensive history dating back to Old English 'flæt', which means level or even, while 'foot' comes from Old English 'fōt', denoting the human appendage. The compound word 'flatfoot' has been used in English since at least the late 19th century to describe those with flat feet. It was later adapted in colloquial language to describe someone taken unaware or unprepared, especially in tense or competitive situations. The dual meaning has given the term a broader cultural significance beyond its medical definition.