elbow

UK: ˈelbəʊ | US: ˈelboʊ

Definition

  1. n. the joint between the upper and lower parts of the arm where it bends

  2. vt. to push or shove with the elbow

Structure
el <old English for "arm">bow <bend>
Etymology

The word "elbow" originates from Old English elnboga, combining eln (meaning "arm," related to the length measure "ell") and boga (meaning "bend" or "bow"). This reflects the joint's function as the bending point of the arm. Over time, elnboga simplified to "elbow" and later "elbow," retaining its core logic: the "arm-bend."

Examples

  1. She rested her elbows on the table while thinking.

  2. He accidentally elbowed me in the crowded subway.

  3. The child scraped his elbow while playing outside.

  4. Lean on your elbows to get a better view.

  5. The dancer’s sharp elbow movements added intensity to the performance.