Limp means to walk unevenly because one leg or foot hurts or doesn't work properly. When you sprain your ankle on the playground, you might limp back to the nurse's office, putting most of your weight on your good leg and stepping gingerly with the injured one. Athletes sometimes limp off the field after getting hurt during a game.

The word can also describe something that lacks firmness or strength. A limp handshake feels weak and uncommitted, like shaking hands with a wet noodle. Lettuce left out too long becomes limp instead of crispy. A limp excuse is one that doesn't convince anyone because it's so weak.

You might hear someone say they feel limp after a long day of hard work, meaning they're so tired their muscles feel loose and heavy. Or a flag might hang limp on a windless day, drooping instead of waving proudly.

Whether describing an uneven walk or something that droops and sags, limp always suggests weakness or a lack of normal strength and energy.