Definition of bob

The origin of the word "bob" is not precisely known, but it's believed to date back to the Middle English period. One possible theory is that it comes from the Old English word "bobian," which means "to cut short." This could refer to the act of cutting off a person's hair, particularly as a form of punishment or as a sign of mourning. In the 17th century, "bob" started being used as a verb meaning "to cut off the end of something," such as a piece of cloth or a hairstyle. This sense of the word eventually led to the use of "bob" as a noun to describe a type of haircut, particularly one that is short and round. The word "bob" has also been used in other contexts, such as in sailing (a "bob" can refer to a sudden movement of the boat) or as a term of affection ("old bob"). Despite its unclear origins, "bob" has remained a popular word in modern English.