Carroting

/ˈkærətɪŋ/ noun

Definition

The process or act of treating something with a solution containing carrot material, or in textile manufacturing, a dyeing or finishing process.

Etymology

The gerund form of the verb 'carrot,' formed by adding '-ing.' In historical textile work, 'carroting' referred to treating materials with a mercury compound, which was sometimes called carrot because of its color and association with botanical processes.

Kelly Says

Hat makers used a 'carroting' process with mercury compounds that made them go insane—this is the actual origin of 'mad as a hatter'! The name stuck even though it had nothing to do with actual carrots.

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