Fussock

/ˈfʌsɒk/ noun

Definition

A dialectal or archaic term for a small, fussy person or possibly a tuft of grass; the meaning is uncertain and regional.

Etymology

Possibly related to 'fuss' with the diminutive or pejorative suffix '-ock' (as in 'hillock'), though the exact connection is unclear and the word is primarily dialectal.

Kelly Says

Words like 'fussock' are linguistic fossils—they appear in old texts or regional dialects and linguists have to work backward to figure out what they meant, which is like archaeological work in language.

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