Pronunciation: [lˈɪzsʌm] (IPA) 
The word "lissome" is spelled with a double S, not a single S. The IPA phonetic transcription for "lissome" is /ˈlɪsəm/, with the stress on the first syllable. The "iss" sound in the middle is represented by the phonetic symbol for the short "i" sound followed by the phonetic symbol for the voiceless "ss" sound. The word "lissome" means graceful, limber, or flexible, and is often used to describe dancers or athletes.
Lissome is an adjective that describes someone or something as being agile, flexible, and graceful. It is often used in the context of describing a person's physical movements or a creature's ability to move quickly and fluidly.
When applied to a person, lissome typically pertains to their athleticism or physical dexterity. It is employed to convey the idea that the individual moves with ease and can contort their body into various positions without difficulty. Lissome individuals are often praised for their gracefulness and the fluidity of their movements.
In the animal kingdom, lissome is used to describe creatures that possess superior agility and nimbleness. Animals such as snakes, felines, and certain birds are known for their lissome nature. Their ability to slither, pounce, or soar with smoothness and precision is what sets them apart from less agile species.
Furthermore, lissome can also be metaphorically applied to non-physical attributes. For example, a writer's prose can be described as lissome if it flows smoothly and eloquently. Similarly, a musical composition can be deemed lissome if its melody transitions effortlessly from one note to another.
In summary, lissome is an adjective that portrays the characteristics of agility, flexibility, and gracefulness, particularly in regards to physical movements, whether it be exhibited by humans, animals, or even non-physical attributes such as writing or music.
The word "lissome" has its roots in the Old English language. It can be traced back to the word "lysym", which means "flexible" or "limber". This Old English term eventually evolved into "lissom" in Middle English, maintaining the same meaning of being agile and easily bending or moving. The word "lissome" has been used in this sense since the 17th century and remains in use today.
