Quote:
Originally Posted by smc
As impressive a list as ladyboyadmirer provided, the question was an etymological one.
There is not universally agreed-to etymology for the word "fuck" in English, although there are several sources that are generally accepted. Germanic cognates are one important source: words in German, Norwegian, Swedish, and Dutch all are similar, and mean "to strike" or in some cases "to copulate." But these may not be the ultimate source.
What is clear is that few, if any, of the "urban myths" about the word's origins are accurate: none of the acronyms, nor any of the things about stockades, or any of that other tripe.
The word's use in a negative context seems to me to be an obvious function of the taboo's associated with its sexual meanings.
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Interesting SMC and ladyboy admirer - and yes, the question was one of origin more so than usage.
I was familiar with some of the root words being associated with 'to strike' or to strike at' and presumed that's where the phrase "fuck you" is rooted and it is of course hurled about today as an insult or a attack. Hence, to strike.
Works for me.
Anyone have anything else?