spindleshanks

[ spin-dl-shangks ]

noun

, (used with a singular or plural verb)

, plural spin·dle·shanks.

1. spindlelegs.

Other Words From

• spin·dle-shanked [spin, -dl-shangkt], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of spindleshanks¹

First recorded in 1560–70; spindle + shank + -s ³

Example Sentences

He was dressed in Knickerbockers, with red stockings, which displayed his poor little spindleshanks; he also wore a brilliant red cravat.

From Project Gutenberg

"Odds fudge—you have spindleshanks!" cried Madcap Moll irrelevantly.

From Project Gutenberg

To think I feared you once, old spindleshanks!

From Project Gutenberg

The oarsman will become "stale" unless the method of exercise is varied; the gymnast will develop the upper part of his body, while his lower extremities will remain spindleshanks.

From Project Gutenberg