Horsefeathers: & Other Curious Words Tapa blanda - 2002

Primera línea

The Anglo-Saxon word which has become stirrup was stigrap, and if this were to be literally translated into modern English, it would become "sty-rope" or "climbing-rope" The Anglo-Saxon word is composed of the root stig, from stigan, "to climb" (see under steward for sty, "to climb"), plus rap, "rope" This leads us to the conclusion that the first stirrups were merely short lengths of ropes thrown over the back of the steed, and having loops tied in either end.

Descripción de contraportada

Oh, horsefeathers!

If you've ever wondered why the candy is called butterscotch; why a certain southern food is called a hush puppy; why tog supports in a fireplace are known as andirons, or sometimes firedogs, you'll be fascinated by the origins of the more than 600 words discussed in "a book that gets curiouser and curiouser as it goes along" (Son Francisco Chronicle).