derf

adjective

ˈderf
Scottish

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, of Scandinavian origin; akin to Old Norse djarfr bold; akin to Old English deorfan to labor, perish, Old Saxon derƀi strong, Old Frisian derve bold, Armenian derbuk rough, stiff, Lithuanian dìrbti to work; basic meaning: to work

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Cite this Entry

“Derf.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/derf. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!