Plural of husky; either sled dogs of Arctic breeds known for their thick coats and endurance, or refers to athletic teams using this mascot.
From 'husky' meaning hoarse or rough, from 'husk' referring to the dry outer covering of seeds. Applied to dogs due to their distinctive hoarse barking sound, first recorded in the 1850s.
The word's journey from describing a hoarse voice to naming hardy Arctic dogs reflects how language adapts to new contexts. Interestingly, many universities adopted the husky as their mascot precisely because it symbolizes endurance and teamwork.
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