TURNSPITS Meaning and
Definition
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Turnspits were mechanical devices used during the 18th and early 19th centuries as a means of roasting meat or poultry over an open fire. Specifically designed for kitchens, these contraptions consisted of a wooden wheel or cylinder positioned horizontally in front of the hearth. The wheel was connected to a chain or rope, which in turn was linked to a spit that held the food to be cooked.
The term "turnspits" also refers to the individuals, usually children or small dogs, who were tasked with operating these devices. They were responsible for turning the wheel continuously so that the meat would roast evenly and not become charred or undercooked.
Turnspits were commonly found in large households, particularly in wealthier homes and inns, where they helped automate the cooking process and reduce the manual labor required. Due to the nature of the job, turnspits were often seen as lowly servants and their work was physically demanding. In some cases, small dogs were trained to perform this role, typically being attached to the wheel with a harness. These canine turnspits were specifically bred for this purpose and were known as "turnspit dogs."
With the advent of more modern cooking technologies, such as gas and electric ovens, turnspits became obsolete and are now only seen in historical reenactments or museums. The term "turnspits" can therefore be seen in both a mechanical and historical context, referring to both the device and the individuals or dogs that operated it.
Common Misspellings for TURNSPITS
- rurnspits
- furnspits
- gurnspits
- yurnspits
- 6urnspits
- 5urnspits
- tyrnspits
- thrnspits
- tjrnspits
- tirnspits
- t8rnspits
- t7rnspits
- tuenspits
- tudnspits
- tufnspits
- tutnspits
- tu5nspits
- tu4nspits
- turbspits
- turmspits
Etymology of TURNSPITS
The word "turnspits" has an interesting etymology. It comes from the combination of two words: "turn" and "spit".
The term "turn" has Old English origins, derived from the Old English word "tyrnan", meaning "to turn" or "rotate". It later evolved into Middle English as "turnen". In this context, it refers to the action of rotating or manipulating something.
The word "spit" has its roots in late Old English and has Germanic origins. It is derived from the Old High German word "spiz", meaning "sharp point" or "spike". Initially, "spit" referred to a long, slender rod used for roasting meat. Over time, it came to represent the mechanism or device on which the meat was placed for roasting.
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