Girt

Part of Speech

Verb (past tense of gird); Adjective

Pronunciation

/ɡɜːrt/ (British English) | /ɡɝːt/ (American English)

Definitions

• (Verb) Past tense of "gird"; to encircle or bind with a belt or band.
• (Verb) To surround or enclose.
• (Adjective, archaic) Encircled, surrounded, or bordered.

Usage Examples

• The castle was girt by high stone walls.
• He girt his sword to his waist before heading into battle.
• The island is girt by the vast ocean.

Etymology

Derived from Old English "gyrdan," meaning "to gird, encircle, or fasten around."

Synonyms

• Encircled
• Bound
• Surrounded
• Belted

Antonyms

• Unbound
• Open
• Free

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• Standard British English: /ɡɜːrt/
• American English: /ɡɝːt/
• Australian English: /ɡɜːt/

Historical Usage

Historically used in literature and poetry, especially in medieval and biblical contexts. The word appears in old English texts to describe knights preparing for battle by fastening their weapons.

Cultural Nuances

The term "girt" is famously used in the Australian national anthem, "Advance Australia Fair," where "girt by sea" describes the island nation's geography.

More Information

The word "girt" has largely fallen out of everyday usage except in specific historical and literary contexts. It remains well-known in Australia due to its presence in the national anthem and has a slightly archaic, poetic quality when used in modern English.