Nim"ble (?), a. [Compar. Nimbler (?); superl. Nimblest (?).] [OE. nimel, prob. orig., quick at seizing, fr. nimen to take, AS. niman; akin to D. nemen, G. nehmen, OHG. neman, Icel. nema, Goth. nima, and prob. to Gr. to distribute. &root; 7. cf. Nomand, Numb.]

Light and quick in motion; moving with ease and celerity; lively; swift.

Through the mid seas the nimble pinnace sails. Pope.

Nimble is sometimes used in the formation of self-explaining compounds; as, nimble-footed, nimble-pinioned, nimble-winged, etc.

Nimble Will Bot., a slender, branching, American grass (Muhlenbergia diffusa), of some repute for grazing purposes in the Mississippi valley.

Syn. -- Agile; quick; active; brisk; lively; prompt.

 

© Webster 1913.

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