Pronunciation: [ˈɔːt] (IPA) 
Ort is a word that is usually spelled with three letters, O-R-T. It is pronounced with the IPA phonetic transcription /ɔrt/. The word has a German background and is used to describe a small leftover piece of food, especially bread. While the spelling may seem unusual, it has remained consistent throughout its usage. In some instances, it may be spelled with a single "t" at the end, but this is not the standard spelling.
Ort is a noun that refers to a small piece or fragment of leftover food, especially bread or meat scraps. It can also be used to describe any small, insignificant or leftover things, objects, or remnants. The term ort stems from the Middle English word "ortes," derived from Old English "ge-ort," meaning "food remains" or "fragments."
In a culinary context, the term ort is commonly associated with the tradition of frugality and not wasting food. This word is often used when referring to table scraps or the bits of uneaten food left on a plate or in a dish after a meal. For example, "He gathered up the ort of bread that was leftover from dinner to feed the birds."
Metaphorically, ort can also be used to convey the idea of something being small, insignificant, or of little value. It may be employed to describe a fragment or remnant of anything that is leftover or has lost its original purpose or significance. For instance, "The letter contained only an ort of information, lacking the full details required for understanding."
Overall, the term ort is primarily associated with the notion of leftovers, fragments, or insignificant remnants, whether in relation to food or more broadly as a metaphorical concept.
Fragments and rejected parts that are left by an animal in feeding; the odds and ends that fall to the ground in working with any material.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "ort" is derived from the Middle English term "orten", which means "to have an abundance" or "to obtain". This Middle English term itself can be traced back to the Old English word "orthy", meaning "to recover" or "to receive". Ultimately, "ort" has roots in the Proto-Germanic word "urþōną", which conveys a similar meaning of "to acquire" or "to inherit".
