how much do you know "tabernacle"?

SteveDallas · 03-17-2005, 03:40 PM

Don't listen to these assholes. They're just trying to be obnoxious. But it's OK, there are still some of us who will help somebody out.

"Tabern" is an old English form of "tavern," referring of course to a bar or pub, or possibly an inn depending on context. The "acle" suffix actually dates back to Saxon roots and indicates a woman or something to do with a woman. Therefore, "tabernacle" is usually read as a reference to a "tavern woman," namely a woman of not-so-sterling moral fiber, and most likely a prostitute, though this can be hard to infer from context in many situations.

Etymology is such an interesting pastime.

03-17-2005, 03:40 PM	#6
SteveDallas Your Bartender Join Date: Jan 2002 Location: Philly Burbs, PA Posts: 7,651	Don't listen to these assholes. They're just trying to be obnoxious. But it's OK, there are still some of us who will help somebody out. "Tabern" is an old English form of "tavern," referring of course to a bar or pub, or possibly an inn depending on context. The "acle" suffix actually dates back to Saxon roots and indicates a woman or something to do with a woman. Therefore, "tabernacle" is usually read as a reference to a "tavern woman," namely a woman of not-so-sterling moral fiber, and most likely a prostitute, though this can be hard to infer from context in many situations. Etymology is such an interesting pastime.

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