hind
UK[haɪnd]US[haɪnd]
adj
Located at or near the back
n
A female deer, especially a red deer over three years old
Etymology
The word 'hind' originates from the Old English 'hindan', meaning "from behind" or "at the back". This term is related to other Germanic words like Old High German 'hintana' and Gothic 'hindar', all conveying a sense of rear position or direction. Its use to describe the back part of something, as in 'hind legs', is a direct retention of this spatial meaning. The distinct meaning referring to a female deer is a separate development from the same Proto-Germanic root, possibly influenced by the animal's perceived timidity or its position in the rear of a herd.
Analysis
This word is a simplex form. It is derived from the Old English word 'hindan', meaning "from behind" or "at the back".
Examples
The dog sat up and begged, using its hind legs.
A hind and her fawn emerged cautiously from the forest.
He felt a sharp pain in his hind quarters after the long ride.