mollycoddle etymology

Etymology:

• "Mollycoddle" is ultimately derived from the Old Irish feminine name Muirgel ("sea-bright").
• In the 16th century, it was used in England as a derogatory term for a spoiled or effeminate man.

Meaning and Origin:

The term "mollycoddle" has two main meanings:

• A person who is pampered or overly protected: This usage stems from the association of the name Muirgel with Irish women, who were often seen as being overly indulgent towards their children.
• A weak or cowardly person: This usage arose from the association of mollycoddles with excessive femininity and a lack of masculinity.

In the 19th century, "mollycoddle" became a slang term for a person who opposed fighting or violence. It was also used to describe someone who was overly sensitive or prissy.

Today, "mollycoddle" is generally used to refer to someone who is spoiled or overindulged, particularly in a manner that is considered excessive or unnecessary.

mollycoddle relate terms

• caudle

  Etymology Middle English caudle from Old French caudel from Late Latin calidum warm

• molly

• molly

• Moll

  Etymology Moll is derived from the Old French word mosle meaning soft or tender

• pamper

  Etymology The word pamper originates from the late 16th century French word pampre

• baby

  Etymology The word baby is derived from the Middle English word babe which origina

• spoil

  Etymology The word spoil comes from the Old French word spolier which means to rob

• favorite

  Etymology Etymology is derived from the Greek words etymon true meaning and logos

• treat

  Etymology The word treat comes from the Middle English word treten meaning to handl

• ducky

  Etymology The word ducky is derived from the Middle English word dok which meant w

• handle

  Etymology of Handle The word handle originates from the Middle English word handelen

• ready

  Etymology Origin Old French redy meaning prepared prompt Latin reditus meani

• darling

  Etymology The word darling is derived from the Old English verb deorling meaning t