broomstick etymology

Etymology of "Broomstick"

The word "broomstick" is derived from two Old English words:

  • Brōm: Meaning "broom" or "besom"
  • Sticca: Meaning "stick"

Meaning and Origin of "Broomstick"

A broomstick is a long, thin stick used to attach bristles or other cleaning materials to form a broom. It is typically made of lightweight wood, such as willow or birch, and is generally between 4 and 6 feet in length.

The earliest brooms were likely made from bundles of twigs or reeds tied together with string. Over time, these were replaced by brooms made with bristles attached to a stick. The first known references to broomsticks date back to the 14th century.

Broomsticks have been used for centuries for a variety of household chores, including sweeping floors, dusting furniture, and cleaning windows. They are also used in rituals and ceremonies in some cultures.

In popular culture, broomsticks are often associated with witches. This association is likely due to the fact that witches were often depicted as using broomsticks to fly. This image may have originated from the use of broomsticks in fertility rituals, where women would ride on broomsticks to symbolize the sweeping away of old crops and the planting of new ones.

broomstick relate terms

  • broom

    Etymology The word broom comes from the Old English word brōm which is of Germanic

  • stick

    Etymology The word stick comes from the Old English word sticca which meant a shor

  • stick

    Etymology The word stick comes from the Old English word sticca which meant a shor

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