nosegay

English

/ˈnəʊzɡeɪ/, /ˈnoʊzˌɡeɪ/

noun
Definitions
  • A small bunch of fragrant flowers or herbs tied in a bundle, often presented as a gift; nosegays were originally intended to be put to the nose for the pleasant sensation or to mask unpleasant odours.
  • (figuratively) An aroma, a scent.

Etymology

Inherited from Middle English nōsegai inherited from Old English nosu (nose) derived from Proto-Indo-European *nas- (nose) derived from Old French gai (gay, cheerful, happy, merry, laughing, joyful) compound from English nose + English gay (homosexual).

Origin

English

gay

Gloss

homosexual

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

Geogrpahic distribution of cognates

Cognates and derived terms