A large, lively party or celebration with lots of dancing, music, and fun.
American slang from the 1870s, possibly from Irish 'shinty' (a type of brawl or commotion) mixed with 'dig' (an energetic movement). The exact origin is uncertain but relates to noise and vigorous activity.
Nobody knows for sure where 'shindig' came from, but its very sound—all those sharp consonants—makes you think of boisterous fun and noise! It's exactly the kind of made-up-sounding word that stuck around because it so perfectly captures the chaotic energy of a wild party.
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