pillow etymology

Etymology:

  • Middle English: pilewe
  • Old English: pyle
  • Proto-Germanic: *pulaiwa-
  • Proto-Indo-European: *pelH- ("to spread out")

Meaning and Origin:

A pillow is a soft, padded cushion used to support the head and neck while sleeping or resting. It can also be used for decorative purposes.

The word "pillow" originates from the Old English word "pyle," which meant "a covering or cushion." It is derived from the Proto-Germanic *pulaiwa-, which is related to the Proto-Indo-European *pelH-, meaning "to spread out." This suggests that pillows were originally made of materials like straw or wool that were spread out to form a soft surface.

Over time, the meaning of "pillow" expanded to include any type of padded cushion used for support or comfort. Today, pillows come in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and materials, and are often used in bedrooms, living rooms, and other areas of the home.

pillow relate terms

  • pillowy

    Etymology of Pillowy The word pillowy is an adjective derived from the noun pillow

  • pillow

    Etymology Middle English pilewe Old English pyle Proto Germanic pulaiwa Proto Indo

  • rest

    Etymology The word rest originates from the Old English word restan which means to

  • sham

    Meaning A form of folk etymology in which a word s actual origin is incorrectly replaced

  • cushion

    Etymology The word cushion comes from the Old French word coissin which in turn come

  • position

    Etymology From Middle English posicion from Anglo Norman posicion from Old French pos

  • place

    Etymology The word place originates from the Latin word platea which means broad

  • lobster

    Etymology The word lobster comes from the Late Latin locusta which means locust T

  • bolster

    Etymology The word bolster comes from the Old English word bolster which is derived