wreef

Dutch

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /vreːf/

• Audio:

  (file)

• Hyphenation: wreef
• Rhymes: -eːf

Etymology 1

From Middle Dutch wrijch (“instep”), ultimately from Proto-Germanic *wrīha(n)-. Most likely influenced by the Dutch verb wrijven (“to rub”). Cognate with Old High German rīho (“knee; back of knee”), from which dialectal German Reihen (“instep”).

Noun

wreef f (plural wreven, diminutive wreefje n)

1. the arched part of the top of the foot between the toes and the ankle; instep
   • 2004, Marjon van Royen, De nacht van de schreeuw. Een ongewone vriendschap tussen twee vrouwen in Mexico.

     Mevrouw Lykari heeft met haar naaldhak op mijn wreef gestampt.

     Mrs Lykari stamped on my instep with her stiletto heel.

Etymology 2

See the etymology of the corresponding lemma form.

Verb

wreef

1. (deprecated template usage) singular past indicative of wrijven