akimbo

Definition

With a crook or bend; with the hand on the hip and elbow turned outward.

Etymology

From Middle English in kenebowe, in kene bowe (“in a keen bow”, i.e. “in a sharp bend or angle”), from in (“in”) + keen, kene (“brave, keen, sharp”) + bowe (“bow, bend”). Alternately, possibly from Old Norse kengr (“bent”) + bogi (“a bow”), compare Icelandic kengboginn (“bow-bent”).

Example Sentences

• ""Now, then, mister," said he, with his head cocked and his arms akimbo, "what are you driving at? Let's have it straight, now.""
• "Girls take hold of the skirts; boys place the hands akimbo, bend forward from the waist, and bow."
• "Men preferred one pose above all others, namely, the elbow akimbo."