sting etymology

Etymology

The word "sting" originates from the Old English word "stingan," meaning "to pierce or stab." It is related to the Old High German word "stingan," with the same meaning. The word has Germanic origins and is thought to be derived from an Indo-European root *(s)teg-, meaning "to stick."

Meaning

"Sting" has several related meanings:

  • A sharp, painful sensation: Caused by a puncture or cut, often associated with the venom or poison of an insect or animal.
  • A sharp remark: A statement or comment that is intended to hurt or humiliate.
  • A painful or irritating experience: A situation or circumstance that causes discomfort or distress.

Origin

The origin of the word "sting" can be traced back to the early Germanic languages. It is believed to have evolved from the Indo-European root *(s)teg-, which also gave rise to the Latin word "stiga," meaning "a goad." The word was first used in English in the early 13th century to describe the sharp, painful sensation caused by a bee or wasp's sting. Over time, its meaning expanded to include other forms of sharp, painful experiences, including emotional and psychological stings.

sting relate terms

  • bee sting

    Etymology The word sting comes from the Old English word stingan meaning to pierce

  • sting

    Etymology The word sting originates from the Old English word stingan meaning to pi

  • stick

    Etymology The word stick comes from the Old English word sticca which meant a shor

  • sting

    Etymology The word sting originates from the Old English word stingan meaning to pi

  • bite

    Etymology The word bite comes from the Old English word bitan which means to cut or

  • bite

    Etymology The word bite comes from the Old English word bitan which means to cut or

  • burn

    Etymology The word burn comes from the Old English word byrnan which means to burn

  • poignant

    Etymology Middle English poynaunt from Old French poignant meaning pricking sharp

  • pungent

    Etymology The word pungent comes from the Latin word pungens meaning piercing or

  • falcate

    Etymology The word falcate originates from the Latin word falx which means sickle

  • stochastic

    Etymology stochastic adjective from Ancient Greek στοχαστικός stokhastik

  • nettle

    Etymology Middle English netele nettle Old English netele Proto Germanic netilaz P

  • teach

    Etymology Definition The study of the origin development and meaning of words Origin

  • recipe

    Etymology The word recipe comes from the Latin word recipere meaning to take or rec