dike

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun (slang) offensive term for a lesbian who is noticeably masculine
  2. noun a barrier constructed to contain the flow of water or to keep out the sea
  3. verb enclose with a dike

Etymology

From Northern Middle English dik and dike (“ditch”), from Old Norse díki (“ditch”). Influenced by Middle Dutch dijc (“ditch; dam”) and Middle Low German dīk (“dam”). See also ditch.

In classic literature

Synonyms

butch, dyke

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