flatfoot

[ flat-foot -foot ]

noun

, plural flat·feet flat·foots

1. Pathology.
   1. a condition in which the arch of the foot is flattened so that the entire sole rests upon the ground.
   2. Also flat foot. a foot with such an arch.
2. Slang. a police officer; cop.
3. Older Slang. a sailor.

flatfoot

/ ˈflætˌfʊt /

noun

1. Also calledsplayfoot a condition in which the entire sole of the foot is able to touch the ground because of flattening of the instep arch
2. -foots-feet a slang word (usually derogatory) for a policeman

Word History and Origins

Origin of flatfoot¹

First recorded in 1865–70; flat ¹ + foot

Example Sentences

It is bad shoeing that makes so many people suffer from flatfoot.

From Project Gutenberg

There was no need to measure them particularly; all they needed was an ordinary set of flatfoot braces.

From Project Gutenberg

Out of twenty-four who thought they had rheumatism in the feet or legs eighteen proved to be cases of flatfoot.

From Project Gutenberg

There is, at the present day, a tendency to recommend too freely the wearing of flatfoot braces or arches.

From Project Gutenberg

It must not be forgotten that the worst forms of cold feet are found among those suffering from flatfoot.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• agent
• informer
• police officer
• private eye
• private investigator
• prosecutor
• reporter
• sleuth
• spy