piker etymology

Etymology

The word "piker" is derived from the early 19th-century American slang term "pikery," which refers to petty theft or pilfering. It is thought to have originated from the verb "to pike," which means to steal or to sneak away.

Meaning and Origin

A piker is someone who is petty, stingy, or insignificant. The term is commonly used to describe a person who is unwilling to take risks or to spend money freely. It can also refer to someone who is lacking in skill or ability.

The first known use of the term "piker" in a written context can be traced back to 1827, when it appeared in the New York American newspaper. The term was popularized in the late 19th and early 20th centuries by journalists and humorists who used it to describe politicians and other public figures who were seen as being stingy or dishonest. Over time, the term became more widely used to refer to anyone who is considered to be petty or insignificant.

In modern usage, the term "piker" is often used in a playful or affectionate manner. It can be used to describe someone who is not very skilled at something or who is not very successful. It can also be used to describe someone who is not willing to take risks or to spend money freely. However, the term can also be used in a more negative sense to describe someone who is petty, stingy, or dishonest.

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