etymology of 'hussy'
From: Ray
Message: 25519
Date: 2003-09-04
I recently read a book which says the word 'hussy' came into being
before the form 'housewife'. However, most dictionaries' etymology
columns list 'hussy' as a contraction of housewife; this might
suggest that 'housewife' was created earlier than 'hussy'.
So, which account is correct? 'hussy' was created before 'housewife'
or 'hussy' happened as a contraction of 'housewife', i.e. it occurred
after 'housewife'?
I will apprecite your replies.
Ray