Zimmer frame

Meaning

1. 1nouncountableBritish

   A lightweight metal frame with four legs that a person with difficulty walking holds in front of them for support.

   Grammar: A countable noun: a Zimmer frame, two Zimmer frames.

   Patterns

   • walk with a Zimmer frame
   • use a Zimmer frame

   After her hip operation, she walked with a Zimmer frame for six weeks.

   The physiotherapist adjusted the height of the Zimmer frame.

   He gripped his Zimmer frame and took a slow step forward.

Word forms

Common combinations

walk with a Zimmer frame

Grandpa can now walk with a Zimmer frame.

use a Zimmer frame

Many patients use a Zimmer frame after surgery.

push a Zimmer frame

She pushed her Zimmer frame along the corridor.

folding Zimmer frame

A folding Zimmer frame fits in a car boot.

lean on a Zimmer frame

He leaned on his Zimmer frame to rest.

Synonyms and how they differ

walker

Walker is the American term and also the neutral one in Britain, while Zimmer frame sounds distinctly British.

walking frame

Walking frame is the generic British term, whereas Zimmer frame began as a brand name.

rollator

A rollator is a walker with wheels and often a seat, while a Zimmer frame is usually fixed and lifted at each step.

crutch

A crutch is used singly or in pairs under the arm, whereas a Zimmer frame stands on its own and uses both hands.

Word family

frame noun

a rigid structure that supports something

Zimmer proper noun

the brand that gave the frame its name

walking aid noun

a device helping someone to walk

Commonly confused: Zimmer frame or zimmer? Zimmer frame or crutches?

Practice

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