akimbo
/əˈkɪmboʊ/
adjective
- With hands on the hips and elbows bent outward, typically indicating defiance, confidence, or readiness.
- The toddler planted his feet and put his arms akimbo, a tiny picture of stubbornness.
- The coach stood akimbo on the sidelines, watching the players warm up.
- She stood with arms akimbo, daring anyone to challenge her decision.
Synonyms
adverb
- In a position with hands on the hips and elbows bent outward.
- She set her arms akimbo and glared at the messy room.
- He stood akimbo, surveying the damage to his garden.
- The chef placed his hands akimbo and waited for the waiter's explanation.