low
UK: ləʊ | US: loʊ
adj. of little height or elevation
adj. below average in quantity, quality, or intensity
adj. lacking vigor or dignity
n. a low point or level
v. (of a cow) to make a deep, resonant sound
The word "low" traces back to Old English hlāw, meaning "not high" or "small in height." It shares Proto-Germanic roots with Dutch laag and German niedrig. Over time, its meaning expanded metaphorically to include concepts like "inferior status" or "reduced intensity." The verb form (e.g., a cow's moo) emerged separately from Old Norse lóa, blending into English through agricultural usage.
The shelf was too low for him to reach comfortably.
Her energy levels felt unusually low after the long trip.
He spoke in a low voice to avoid being overheard.
The team hit a low after losing three consecutive matches.
The cows began to low as the farmer approached with feed.