Random article ( of 1042 ) Latest updates

User Tools

Site Tools


content:language:etymology:pet_etymology

Wikenigma - an Encyclopedia of Unknowns Wikenigma - an Encyclopedia of the Unknown

'Pet' etymology

domesticated or tamed animal kept as a favorite," 1530s, originally in Scottish and northern England dialect (and exclusively so until mid-18c.), a word of unknown origin. Sense of "indulged or favorite child" (c. 1500) is recorded slightly earlier than that of "animal kept as a favorite" (1530s), but the latter may be the primary meaning. Probably associated with or influenced by petty.

Source : Etymology online

Note: The Online Etymology Dictionary maintains a free-access list of the origins of thousands of English words


Show another (random) article

Suggestions for corrections and ideas for articles are welcomed : Get in touch!


Further resources :

Do NOT follow this link or you will be banned from the site!

DOKUWIKI IMPLEMENTATION DESIGN BY UNIV.ORG.UK MARCH 2024