hassock etymology

Etymology

The word "hassock" is derived from the Middle English word "hacok," meaning "rush." This word can be traced back to the Old English word "heges" or "hæces," which referred to a type of coarse grass known as sedge.

Meaning

A hassock is a small, upholstered footstool or cushion that is typically used as a footrest or for kneeling during prayer or meditation.

Origin

The use of hassocks for religious purposes has a long history. In the Middle Ages, churches and monasteries used hassocks made of rushes or straw to provide comfort and support to worshippers during long prayers. Gradually, hassocks evolved into more elaborate and decorative objects, often adorned with embroidery or other embellishments.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, hassocks became increasingly popular in homes as well as in religious settings. They were often used as footstools or as occasional seating in drawing rooms and living areas. Victorian-era hassocks were typically upholstered in plush velvet or other luxurious fabrics.

Today, hassocks continue to be used in both religious and secular contexts. They are often found in churches, temples, and other places of worship, as well as in homes, offices, and public spaces.

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