Since I now have instant (I initially miswrote as instinct) access to the OED through the privilege of the university, I can't stop looking up words. The latest? Far-fetched. It's earliest known usage: 1583 STUBBES Anat. Abus. I. (1879) 33
Farrefetched and deare boughte is good for Ladyes, they say.
Hey, Christmas is coming up...
The usage of "studiously sought out; not easily or naturally introduced; strained" isn't recorded until 24 years later, in 1607.
How did those lovely far-fetched things become difficult and strained?
i also have access to the online oed via work, and am always looking up words. especially their etymology. it is an addiction, looking up words. but a good type of addiction, no?
ResponderBorrarfeliz navidad,
richard