arsy-varsy

1 of 2

adverb

ar·​sy-var·​sy
¦ärsēˈvärsē
variants or arsy-versy
-ˈvər-
: backside forward : head over heels : topsy-turvy
knocked him arsy-varsy

arsy-varsy

2 of 2

adjective

variants or arsy-versy
¦⸗⸗¦⸗⸗
: upside down : topsy-turvy

Word History

Etymology

Adverb

reduplication (probably influenced by Latin versus) of arsy, from arse entry 1 + -y

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Dictionary Entries Near arsy-varsy

ars simia naturae

arsy-varsy

art

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Cite this Entry

“Arsy-varsy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/arsy-varsy. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

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