pursy

¹

[ pur-see ]

adjective

, pur·si·er, pur·si·est.

1. short-winded, especially from corpulence or fatness.
2. corpulent or fat.

pursy

²

[ pur-see ]

adjective

, purs·i·er, purs·i·est.

1. vain about one's wealth; purse-proud.

pursy

/ ˈpɜːsɪ /

adjective

1. short-winded
2. archaic.
   fat; overweight

Other Words From

• pursi·ly adverb
• pursi·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of pursy¹

1400–50; late Middle English purcy, variant of Middle English pursif < Anglo-French porsif, variant of Old French polsif, derivative ( -ive ) of polser to pant, heave. See push

Origin of pursy²

First recorded in 1545–55; purse + -y ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of pursy¹

C15: alteration of earlier pursive, from Anglo-French porsif, ultimately from Latin pulsāre to pulsate

Example Sentences

Coleridge, in his person, was rather above the common size, inclining to the corpulent, or like Lord Hamlet, ‘somewhat fat and pursy.’

From Project Gutenberg

It certainly was a delightful evening, and Gabrielle, with the pursy chevalier trotting by her side, flung open a casement and stepped forth upon a balcony.

From Project Gutenberg

Never since he was a child did the pursy old gentleman run as fast as he did now.

From Project Gutenberg

But the good pursy citizens behind him, who, when they were not deafening the little Mayor with their counsels, were making a jest of the turmoil, had wives and daughters, goods and houses within reach.

From Project Gutenberg

The pursy chevalier, who had been very active, puffed and blew, and looked like to have a fit.

From Project Gutenberg