Have you come across the curious word “fistle” somewhere? You aren’t alone if you’re stumped — if you have no idea what fistle could refer to. Fistle isn’t just an unusual word but also one with several meanings. This post explores them all.
Meaning
“Fistle” is an unusual word with several distinct meanings:
- A fistle can refer to a fist bump, a greeting in which you make a fist and bump it against another person’s Fist bumps have replaced handshakes among certain groups of people.
- A fistle can also be a slight rustling noise. The leaves of dense shrubs might “fistle” when there is a breeze. When fistle is used to mean a rustling noise, it is a form of Scottish dialect. Alternative spellings include “fissle” and “fissil.”
- Someone who fidgets and causes a rustling sound in the process can be said to be “fistling.” This meaning is closely related to the second but not identical.
Example Usage
Are you trying to get a better understanding of what “fistle” means? These example sentences might help you out:
- “I dressed up in a suit and tie, and reached out for a handshake when I went to my job interview. The boss was cool, though. He greeted me with a fistle and dressed casually. I’m worrying whether I overdressed now!”
- “You can always tell when a thunderstorm is on its way. As dark clouds form above, the leaves fistle in the wind, and the birds grow restless.”
- “Won’t you just stop fistling about already? You’re making me nervous! Calm yourself down!”
Origin
“Fistle” is a little-known word with curious origins.
The most widespread meaning of this word is “a rustling sound.” These sounds might come about when there is a slight breeze, or a small animal rummages through your garden.
When it means rustling, “fistle” is a Scottish word and is considered part of the dialect in that part of the United Kingdom. The Oxford English Dictionary first defined “fistle” as a slight rustling noise in 1721. Although the word is dated and unknown outside of Scotland, it remains in use today.
The second meaning of “fistle” is “fidgeting,” the bodily movements restless people often make. This meaning also forms a part of the Scottish dialect, and it arose because people who fidget may make a rustling sound.
A “fistle” can also simply mean a fist bump. A fist bump is a greeting in which two people make fists and bump them together to touch knuckles. It is also called knuckle-bumping and emerged during the 1970s.
US President Barack Obama played a role in popularizing the “fistle,” which only became more widespread after the Covid-19 pandemic made people rethink germ-spreading handshakes.
Fist bumps are most common in younger generations, and the Urban Dictionary first defined a “fistle” as bumping fists in 2007.
Phrases Similar to Fistle
- You can talk about a “rustling,” “crackling,” or “swooshing” sound if you aren’t Scottish.
- You can say “fidgeting” instead of “fistling” to describe people playing with their hands or objects or moving their legs up and down rapidly.
- “Fistle” is still a little-known way to describe a fist bump. Say “fist bump” instead, or opt for “knuckle bump.”
Phrases Opposite to Fistle
You may hear complete silence in the absence of a fistling sound. People who don’t fidget are completely still and composed. They appear more confident and less restless because they aren’t fidgeting.
A “fistle” or fist-bump is a modern greeting. Handshakes are the more traditional way to greet someone, especially in business settings.
What Is the Correct Word?
The correct word is “fistle.” It can mean a rustling sound, fidgeting, or a fist bump.
Ways People May Say Fistle Incorrectly
Don’t confuse the word “fistle,” which most spell check software marks as incorrect, with “thistle.” Thistles are purple flowering plants with prickles.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase Fistle
You can say “fistle” instead of “fist bump” if you’re sure your audience will understand what you’re talking about.
“Fistle” is also a poetic way to describe a rustling sound or fidgeting, but unfortunately, only Scottish natives will know what you mean when you say this.