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freak

The origin and history of freak.

Etymology

Origin uncertain, first appearing in English in the 1560s meaning a sudden whim; likely linked to Old English frec, "bold, eager," which drifted toward meaning something wildly out of the ordinary.

Origin: Old English · First attested 1560

Class of 1560

freak first entered the language around 1560. Other words from the same year:

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Etymology: FreeDict original editorial.