Picnicked: meaning, definitions and examples

The word 'picnic' comes from the French verb 'pique-nique', which emerged in the 17th century. It is believed to be a combination of the word 'piquer', meaning 'to pick or peck', and 'nique', which denotes something small or of little importance. 'Pique-nique' originally referred to a meal where everyone contributed a dish, a concept that was quite popular among the French bourgeoisie. The term was adopted into English in the early 19th century, initially retaining the communal aspect of meal-sharing, but gradually evolved into the modern idea of eating outdoors, frequently in parks or picturesque settings. The 'picnic' tradition became particularly popular in Victorian England, where social gatherings in nature were fashionable, leading to an enduring cultural practice that continues today.

Ranking #39,700, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

• ...
• 39697 hoodwinking
• 39698 vanquisher
• 39699 weightily
• 39700 picnicked
• 39701 hightail
• 39702 circumcising
• 39703 tiler
• ...