The Hidden Etymologies Behind 20 Everyday English Sound Words

According to Merriam-Webster, the term "pow" can be traced back to 1580, predating its popularization in comic book art. A Quartz analysis of 20 English onomatopoeic words reveals that "Bang," originating from the Old Norse "banga," was used as a verb in the 1500s. Other examples include "Boom," which comes from Middle English "bombon," "Bounce," derived from Low German "bunsen," and "Snap," from Middle Dutch. Animal sounds such as "Buzz," from 14th-century Middle English "busse," "Giggle," from Dutch "gigelen," and "Laugh," from Old English "hlæhhan," are also noted. Additionally, "Hiccup" likely has Low German roots, while "clang" comes from Latin "clangere," and "crackle" dates back to the 15th century. The word "cliché" mimics a printing mold sound, and "buffoon" is derived from the Italian "buffare." "Sneeze" was previously known as "fnese," and the "boom" in microphone stands is linked to the Dutch word for tree.