southpaw
The origin and history of southpaw.
Etymology
From south + paw. First recorded in the early 1800s; commonly explained by old ballpark layouts that put a left-handed pitcher's throwing arm on the south side, though the term may actually trace back further to 1840s boxing slang for a left-handed punch.
Class of 1800
southpaw first entered the language around 1800. Other words from the same year:
See the full Class of 1800 →