DumbQuestions/etymology
Q. Where does the term "basket case" originate?
A. "Basket case" refers to a person who is completely helpless or is unable to function normally. The term originates from World War I regarding soldiers who had lost all four limbs and thus would have to be carried in a basket.
A. The actual origins of this phrase are unknown. It has been suggested that it comes from the fact that the loon, an aquatic bird similar in appearance to a duck, makes a strange, haunting sound at night which would suggest that it is a little strange. It is also possible that it is related to the Dutch "loen" which means "stupid person." Another suggested origin is its derivation from the word lunatic which means moonstruck, or made crazy by the moon.
Q. What is the origin of the word "wallet"?
A. The exact origin is unknown, but it probably comes from the Old North French "wallet" which means roll or knapsack. Another theory is that it comes from the Proto-Germanic "wall" which means roll.
Q. When referring to a bicycle wheel, what is the origin of the word spoke?
A. The English word "spoke" comes from the Middle Dutch word "spike".
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