birr

Definition

Strength, vigor, energy.

Etymology

From Middle English bir (“favorable or strong wind”), from Old English byre (“strong wind, storm”); cognate with Norwegian bør, Icelandic byrr (“sailing winds”), Albanian borë (“snow”), and Polish burza (“storm, thunderstorm”).

Example Sentences

• "Ye'll be sae kind as let me see How this same bird o' yours can flee. T'oblige ye, friend, I winna stand — Syne loos'd the falcon frae his hand. Unhooded, up she sprang wi' birr, While baith stood staring after her."
• "Then steer thro' life wi' birr an' vigour"
• "Your chanter sets us a ' a-steer, Get out your pipes and blaw wi' birr, We'll dance the Highland fling"