conduct a taboo word etymology.
You are to conduct a taboo word etymology. Choose ONE English taboo word from the following approved list and research its historical origins and how its uses have changed over time (in a manner similar to how I discussed the etymology of ‘fuck’ or how Eggert discusses ‘cunt’ in the book):
shit cock bitch faggot slut prick piss pussy gay whore bastard
Minimally start by looking it up in the Oxford English dictionary, as well as www.etymonline.com (Links to an external site.).
Origins: Describe the word’s origins — what language did it came from? What
was/were its original meaning(s)? Are there any words today that are descended from
this same root? (You may not be able to determine this.)
Tabooness: (This aspect of the word may be hard to research) Was it always taboo? Is
there any indication of when it started to become taboo? (Look for clues like when it first appeared in print using dashes; or a reference in the dicitionary to ‘vulgar’ use or use as a slur, etc.)
Usage: How has this word’s usage changed over time? How is it used now? Does this word exhibit polysemy? What different kinds of meaning does it have? Describe changes in its denotative vs. connotative use over time.
Be sure to use the terminology we’ve introduced in the class to discuss this word. What class(es) of taboo word does this example illustrate? What euphemisms/orthophemisms does it have, if any?
Please research responsibly and cite your (reputable) sources. Use your own words in your write-up. To get full points, make sure you address every part of the assignment instructions.
