fist
Elementary (A2)
IPA: //fɪst//
KK: /fɪst/
noun
Definition
A tightly closed hand with fingers bent inward, often used for hitting or grasping something.
Example
He raised his fist in celebration after winning the match.
Conversation
Did you see that guy at the gym who was lifting weights with a fist full of determination?
Yeah, he was really pushing himself hard!
I wish I could have that kind of strength and focus in my workouts.
You just need to keep practicing, and soon you'll be lifting with a fist like his!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
hand
clutch
grasp
Antonyms
open
release
loosen
transitive verb
Definition
To make a tight hand shape by curling the fingers inward, often used to hold or strike something.
Example
He decided to fist the paper tightly before throwing it away.
Tense Forms
Past: fisted
Past Participle: fisted
Conversation
I saw a really intense fight last night.
Oh really? Did they fist each other a lot?
Yeah, it was crazy how they were just swinging their fists around.
Root Explanation
The word 'fist' originates from Old English 'fist', which means a hand with the fingers clenched. It is related to the Proto-Germanic '*fistiz', meaning a hand or fist. The word describes the shape of the hand when the fingers are curled inward, forming a compact structure.
Memory Tip
Think of a hand that is 'clenched' into a tight shape — that's what a fist is.
Visually Confused Words
frist
foist
first
feist
ist
fit
foisty
fishet