Definition of lather

competent Definition: (adjective) having the skill and knowledge needed for a particular task; capable Petersons.com

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< lathe

lathing >

lath·er    (lr) KEY  

NOUN:

1. A foam formed by soap or detergent agitated in water, as in washing or shaving.
2. Froth formed by profuse sweating, as on a horse.
3. Informal A condition of anxious or heated discomposure; agitation: The students were in a lather over the proposed restrictions.

VERB:
lath·ered , lath·er·ing , lath·ers
VERB:
tr.

1. To spread with or as if with lather.
2. Informal To give a beating to; whip.

VERB:
intr.

1. To produce lather; foam.
2. To become coated with lather.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Probably from Middle English latheren, to wash or soak clothes, from Old English lthran, to cover with lather; see leu()- in Indo-European roots

OTHER FORMS:
lather·er (Noun), lather·y (Adjective)

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