Leggy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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leggy
[ˈlɛɡi ]
Definition
describing appearance
The term 'leggy' is used to describe a person or animal that has long legs in proportion to their body. It is often applied to models or athletes, indicating that their long limbs contribute to an attractive or graceful appearance. In fashion, leggy models are highly sought after, as long legs can enhance the visual appeal of clothing. Additionally, the term can refer to certain types of plants that grow tall and lanky in search of sunlight. Overall, 'leggy' conveys a sense of elegance, athleticism, or growth.
Synonyms
lanky, slender, stilted, tall.
Examples of usage
- She walked into the room looking very leggy in her new dress.
- The leggy breed of dog stood out at the park.
- The model's leggy frame was perfect for the runway.
- As spring approached, the leggy sunflowers began to reach for the sun.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Fashion
- In fashion, models with 'leggy' appearances are often favored as their height can enhance the visual impact of clothing on the runway.
- The leggy look is often associated with high fashion, as long legs can create elegant lines and silhouettes.
Animals
- Many animals rely on their leggy builds for speed and agility, such as the kangaroo and the ostrich.
- In the insect world, creatures like the praying mantis are described as leggy due to their elongated limbs.
Pop Culture
- Movies and TV often reference leggy characters as a comedic trope, emphasizing their awkwardness or grace.
- In dance genres, many choreographers celebrate 'leggy' performances, emphasizing the aesthetic appeal of long limbs in movement.
Gardening
- In gardening, 'leggy' is a term used to describe plants that grow tall and spindly, often due to lack of sunlight.
- When plants become leggy, gardeners may need to prune them to encourage a bushier shape and healthier growth.
Origin of 'leggy'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'leggy' comes from Middle English, where 'leg' meant a limb or part of the body.
- Initially, the word was used to describe livestock, indicating those animals with longer legs were often stronger or more impressive.
The word 'leggy' is derived from the noun 'leg,' which has Old English origins from the word 'leah' meaning 'leg' or 'limb.' The addition of the suffix '-y' suggests a characteristic or state related to the noun. The term has been in use since at least the early 19th century, originally applying to animals and later extending to human figures, particularly in the context of fashion and beauty. Over time, 'leggy' has become a popular descriptor in various domains, including athletics and botany, reinforcing its duality in describing physical characteristics, whether they are appealing or indicative of growth patterns in nature.