I. ˈlimp intransitive verb
Etymology: probably from Middle English lympen to fall short; akin to Old English limpan to happen, lemp healt lame
Date: circa 1570
1.
a. : to walk lamely ; especially : to walk favoring one leg
b. : to go unsteadily : falter
2. : to proceed slowly or with difficulty
the ship limp ed back to port
• limp·er noun
II. noun
Date: 1818
: a limping movement or gait
III. adjective
Etymology: akin to limp (I)
Date: circa 1706
1.
a. : lacking firm texture, substance, or structure
limp curtains
her hair hung limp about her shoulders
b. : not stiff or rigid
a book in a limp binding
2.
a. : weary , exhausted
limp with fatigue
b. : lacking in strength, vigor, or firmness : spiritless
• limp·ly adverb
• limp·ness noun