[belt] n [ME, fr. OE; akin to OHG balz belt; both fr. L balteus belt] (bef. 12c) 1 a: a strip of flexible material worn esp. around the waist b: a similar article worn as a corset or for protection or safety or as a symbol of distinction
2: a continuous band of tough flexible material for transmitting motion and power or conveying materials
3: an area characterized by some distinctive feature (as of culture, habitation, geology, or life forms); esp: one suited to a particular crop "the corn ~"
4: beltway -- belt.ed adj -- belt.less adj -- below the belt : unfair, unfairly -- under one's belt : in one's possession: as part of one's experience
[2]belt vt (14c) 1 a: to encircle or fasten with a belt b: to strap on
2. a: to beat with or as if with a belt: thrash b: strike, hit
3: to mark with a band
4: to sing in a forceful manner or style "~ing out popular songs" ~ vi 1: to move or act in a speedy, vigorous, or violent manner
2: to sing loudly -- belt.er n [3]belt n (1899) 1: a jarring blow: whack
2: drink "a ~ of gin"