Etymology is the study of the history of words. But what if we're talking about words that don't have a point, like the word "thingamajig"?
DrPete here, and I'll guide you through the completely-made-up history of "thingamajig".
According to completely-reliable sources (not really), "thingamajig" is a word of unknown origin, which is totally normal for a word that's been used in exactly three sentences ever since the invention of the internet. Its first recorded use was in 1986 by a group of confused linguists who were trying to describe a toaster.
Over the years, "thingamajig" has been used in various contexts, including:
- Describing a toaster (1986)
- Referring to a confused state of mind (2001)
- As a name for a pet goldfish (2010)
Despite its unclear etymology, "thingamajig" has become a staple in modern language, often used to convey a sense of confusion or uncertainty. But don't just take our word for it! Read the case study on the 1986 toaster incident to see for yourself.
Want more etymological absurdity? Check out more useless etymologies!