Definition of reedy

The word "reedy" has a fascinating origin. It comes from the Old English word "ród," meaning "rush" or "reed," which refers to a type of tall grass or aquatic plant. In Middle English (circa 1100-1500 AD), the word "reedy" emerged, literally meaning "growing reeds" or "reedy ground." Initially, it described a marshy or wetland area where reeds or rushes grew abundantly. Over time, the adjective "reedy" also took on a figurative sense, describing something as thin, wiry, or wiry-haired, likely due to the resemblance of reeds to human hair. Today, "reedy" is used to describe not only the physical appearance of plants but also the characteristics of a person, such as being thin or having a wispy beard.