clean-timbered: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘clean-timbered’ mean?
The idiom clean-timbered refers to a person, especially a woman, who has a well-proportioned or shapely figure.
Idiom Explorer
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The idiom "in fighting trim" means to be in good physical condition or ready to engage in a fight or competition.
The idiom "hale and hearty" means being in good health and full of energy, often used to describe someone who is robust and lively.
The idiom "good looker" refers to a person who is physically attractive or visually pleasing.
The idiom "give someone wood" is a slang phrase that is used to describe a feeling of sexual attraction or arousal towards someone.
The idiom "gentle sex" refers to women or the female gender. It implies that women are delicate, refined, and in need of care and protection.
The idiom "fresh-faced" refers to someone who has a youthful, healthy appearance, often with smooth and unlined skin.
The idiom "fair sex" refers to women or the female gender. It suggests an admiration for women or the perception that they are delicate and charming.
The idiom "dressed to the nines" means to be dressed extremely elegantly or stylishly.
Revealing Underlying Grace
The idiom "clean-timbered" refers to a person who is physically strong, fit, and robust. It originated in the maritime industry, where it described a ship with a clean and strong timber framework. This framework was essential for the ship's stability and strength in the harsh conditions of the sea.
When applied to a person, being "clean-timbered" suggests that they possess a similar strength and robustness. They are not only physically strong, but also mentally and emotionally resilient. They have a strong foundation, much like the sturdy framework of a ship.
The idiom is often used to describe someone who excels in physical activities or sports. It can also be used to describe someone who possesses a strong character and is able to navigate through difficult situations. In both cases, being "clean-timbered" conveys a sense of reliability and the ability to handle challenges with ease.
One related idiom is "butter face", which is used to describe a person who has an attractive body but an unattractive face. This idiom contrasts with "clean-timbered", as it focuses on the physical appearance of a person rather than their overall strength and resilience. While "butter face" may be considered a more derogatory term, it is worth noting that idioms can vary in tone and meaning.
Another related idiom is "broad in the beam", which is used to describe a person who has a wide or large lower body. This idiom also differs from "clean-timbered" as it emphasizes the physical characteristics of a person, specifically their body shape. While "clean-timbered" conveys strength and resilience, "broad in the beam" focuses on a person's physical proportions.
The idiom "clean-timbered" originated from the maritime industry and is used to describe a person who is physically strong, mentally and emotionally resilient. It highlights their ability to handle challenges and navigate difficult situations. In contrast, idioms like "butter face" and "broad in the beam" focus on physical appearance and body proportions respectively. While all three idioms describe different aspects of a person, "clean-timbered" stands out for its emphasis on overall strength and character.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom clean-timbered can be used in a sentence:
- He is a clean-timbered athlete, with no history of performance-enhancing drug use.
- The old barn was made of clean-timbered wood, free from knots or blemishes.
- She is a clean-timbered lawyer, known for her honesty and integrity.
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