noun / verb
fettle
FET-ul/ˈfetl/
A condition of sound health or readiness.
Daily walks and plenty of sleep keep her in fine fettle.
Etymology
The Middle English verb fettle meant to make ready or put in order. The noun names a resulting condition or state, including health and spirits; the verb’s earlier origin is uncertain.
More examples
- Despite its age, the truck is still in good fettle.
- He arrives in fine fettle, ready for the long hike.
- The mechanic fettles the engine before each race.
Forms
fettle · fettles · fettled · fettling