English Explanatory Dictionary

in fine fettle

English dictionary entry

Meanings

prep_phrase
  1. In good condition; energetic, fit.

Pronunciation

/ɪn ˌfaɪn ˈfɛtl̩/ LL-Q1860 (eng)-Vealhurl-in fine fettle.wav /ɪn ˌfaɪn ˈfɛt(ə)l/ [-ɾ(ə)l]

Word forms

in fine fettle

Etymology

From in + fine (“of superior quality”) + fettle (“state of physical condition”). Fettle is derived from Late Middle English fetlen (“(verb) to bestow; to fix, prepare, put in place; to prepare (oneself) for battle, gird up; to shape; to be about to, or to ready (oneself), to stay; (adjective) shaped (well or poorly)”) [and other forms], possibly from Old English fetel (“belt, girdle, fettle”), from Proto-Germanic *fatilaz; further etymology unknown.

Synonyms

fit as a fiddle
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