A ribbon or cord with stiffened thread, used for trimming; also an offensive slang term for a person with a limb disability.
Possibly from Dutch 'gimp' or Old Norse 'gimnill,' relating to twisted thread. The textile meaning is primary; the slang usage is secondary and considered derogatory.
In textile history, gimp was luxuriously expensive—wealthy 18th-century people used it to decorate furniture and clothes as a status symbol, which is why it shows up in period dramas and antique furniture.
Slur for disabled persons (limping gait); gendered as emasculation in some contexts ('wimpy,' 'weak'); ableist and loaded with historical contempt.
Avoid as descriptor for disabled people. Use 'disabled,' 'limping,' or specific condition if relevant. Reserve for historical/etymological contexts only.
["disabled","mobility aid user","limping"]
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