EMPTY HAND Meaning and
Definition
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Empty hand refers to a state or condition where one does not possess or hold any object or weapon. It describes the physical state of having open hands without any items or tools being held or gripped. The term is often used metaphorically to imply a lack of resources, possessions, or advantages in a particular situation. To be empty-handed suggests that an individual is devoid of any external support or assistance.
In a literal sense, empty hand implies the absence of any object in one's grasp, whether it be for self-defense, sports, or other particular purposes. For instance, in martial arts, fighting empty-handed indicates engaging in combat without any weapons or implements. This concept is influential in various martial arts disciplines and is often utilized in self-defense training.
Metaphorically, empty hand can denote being unfavorable or disadvantaged due to a scarcity of resources or advantages. It suggests being unprepared, without any tools or assistance to handle a particular situation or challenge. It may also imply a state of vulnerability or helplessness, lacking any means of protection or defense.
Overall, empty hand generally refers to a person devoid of physical objects or external support, signifying a lack of resources or advantages.
Etymology of EMPTY HAND
The word "empty" can be traced back to the Old English word "ǣmettig", meaning "unoccupied" or "idle". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "ǣmtijaz", which carries the same meaning. This, in turn, can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root "*med-" meaning "to take appropriate measures" or "to heal".
The word "hand" originated from the Old English word "hand", which is traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "handuz". It can be linked to the Proto-Indo-European root "*kent-" meaning "to take" or "to seize".
Thus, the etymology of "empty hand" reflects the combination of the Old English word for "unoccupied" or "idle" with the word for the body part responsible for grasping or seizing things.
