Etymology
The word "mincing" comes from the Old English word "minsian," which means "to make fine or small." It is related to the Middle Dutch word "minsen" and the German word "mengen," both of which also mean "to mix or stir."
Meaning
Mincing refers to the act of cutting food into very small pieces, typically by using a sharp knife or a food processor. It can also be used figuratively to describe the act of speaking or moving in a deliberately precise or affected manner.
Origin
The earliest known use of the word "mincing" in English dates back to the late 14th century. It was originally used to describe the act of cutting meat into small pieces for use in cooking. Over time, the word came to be used more generally to refer to the act of cutting any type of food into small pieces.
By the 17th century, the word "mincing" had also begun to be used figuratively to describe the act of speaking or moving in a deliberately precise or affected manner. This usage is likely derived from the idea that someone who minces their words is trying to be careful not to offend or upset anyone.
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