vernacular etymology

Vernacular Etymology

Meaning: A folk or common-sense etymology that is not based on historical linguistic research. It is often based on superficial similarities between words or on popular beliefs about their origins.

Origin: The term "vernacular etymology" comes from the Latin "vernaculus," meaning "native" or "domestic." It refers to etymologies that arise from popular usage and are not derived from scholarly study.

Characteristics:

• Superficial similarities: Vernacular etymologies often rely on phonetic or orthographic similarities between words, even if there is no historical connection.
• Folkloric beliefs: They may be influenced by popular traditions, myths, or legends about word origins.
• Unsupported by linguistic evidence: Vernacular etymologies are not based on rigorous linguistic research or historical evidence.
• Persistence: Despite being disproven, vernacular etymologies can persist in popular usage.

Examples:

• Nightmare: From "mare" (old female demon) -incorrect
• Lavender: From "lavare" (to wash) -incorrect
• Mortgage: From "mort" (death) and "gage" (pledge) -incorrect
• Curfew: From "couvre-feu" (cover fire) -correct
• Kindergarten: From "Kinder" (children) and "garten" (garden) -correct

Significance:

Vernacular etymologies can provide insights into the beliefs and traditions of a culture. However, it is important to note that they are not linguistically accurate and should not be used as the basis for historical research.

vernacular relate terms

• slang

  Etymology of Slang Originated in the 18th century as a shortening of slangwhanger a

• cant

  Etymology From Middle English canten ultimately from Old French chantere to sing

• jargon

  Etymology The word jargon originates from the French word jargon which in turn deriv

• specialty

  Etymology The word specialty derives from the Latin word specialis which means par

• propriety

  Etymology Middle English proprietē from Anglo Norman French proprieté from Late Lat

• groat

  Etymology The word groat is derived from the Middle Dutch word groot meaning large

• argot

  Etymology From French argot from Old Occitan argot beggars slang jargon perhaps

• common

  Etymology refers to the study of the origin and history of words It involves tracing the