Pronunciation: [lˈa͡ɪð] (IPA) 
The spelling of "lithe" may seem daunting, but its pronunciation is not too complicated once you break it down using IPA phonetic transcription. The word is pronounced /laɪð/, with the "l" sound at the beginning, followed by a long "i" sound, and ending with a soft "th" sound. The "e" at the end of the word is silent. "Lithe" means to be thin, supple, and agile, and is often used to describe dancers or athletes who possess these qualities.
The term "lithe" refers to a physical quality, describing someone or something as supple, graceful, or agile in movement. It characterizes a person or object as having the ability to bend or twist with apparent ease and without any signs of stiffness or exertion. The word originated from the Old English word "lith," meaning "soft" or "gentle."
When used to describe a person, "lithe" implies a combination of flexibility and elegance. It suggests that the individual moves with a fluidity that is both effortless and aesthetically pleasing. A lithe person might be praised for their graceful dance moves or their ability to contort their body into various positions.
In relation to an object or material, "lithe" indicates a pliable or elastic quality. It suggests that the material can be easily bent or manipulated without breaking or deforming, while still retaining its original form.
Furthermore, "lithe" can also extend beyond physical attributes to describe something as mentally or verbally agile. It suggests a nimbleness of mind, articulation, or wit, indicating the ability to think quickly and express thoughts effectively.
Overall, "lithe" is an adjective used to portray someone or something as possessing remarkable ease, flexibility, or agility in their physical, mental, or verbal actions, signaling a harmonious and effortlessly controlled demeanor.
Flexible; easily bent.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "lithe" traces its etymology back to the Old English "līþe", which means "gentle, mild, or meek". This Old English term is derived from the Proto-Germanic language where it ultimately finds its root in the Proto-Indo-European base "*leit-", meaning "to bend" or "to be supple". Over time, the meaning of "lithe" evolved from its original sense of meekness to refer to flexibility, gracefulness, and being agile.
