Etymology and Origin
The word "mummerset" is a colloquial term with several possible origins:
Mummers and Morrice Dancers: Mummers were masked performers who entertained at festivals and holidays. Morrice dancers were a related group of traditional dancers. The term "mummerset" may derive from blending "mummer" and "morrice" to refer to a type of juggling or acrobatics performed by these groups.
Mummers and Morris Code: Morris Code is a type of semaphore signaling using flags or lights. It is said that the term "mummerset" was used to refer to a part of the Morse Code system that used a zigzag or criss-cross pattern, resembling the movements of mummers or dancers.
Meaning
The word "mummerset" has various meanings depending on the context:
Juggling or Acrobatics: Originally, it referred to a specific type of entertainment performed by mummers or morrice dancers, involving tumbling, juggling, and other feats.
Mischievous Behavior: Over time, the term came to be used in a more general sense to describe any kind of silly, playful, or mischievous behavior, especially among young people.
Nonsensical Talk or Gibberish: By extension, "mummerset" began to refer to any form of incoherent or nonsensical speech or writing.
Usage
The term "mummerset" is used primarily in informal contexts, particularly in British English. It is often used to describe the behavior of children or adolescents engaged in playful or prankish activities. It can also be used to characterize language that is illogical, confusing, or meaningless.
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