Definition of crisp

The word "crisp" has its origins in Old English and Middle English. The verb "crisp" comes from the Old English word "crispian," which means "to break or crack" or "to make brittle." In the 14th century, the Middle English form "crispen" emerged, meaning "to make hard and brittle" or "to dry and crackle." In the 17th century, the noun "crisp" emerged, referring to something that is firm, hard, or brittle. This could be a crisp leaf, a crisp apple, or even crispy fried foods. Over time, the meanings of "crisp" expanded to include sensations like the sound of something crunchy (onomatopoeic words like "crisp" and "crackle") and the idea of something being fresh, clean, and revitalized, like a crisp morning breeze. So, there you have it – the etymology of "crisp" in a nutshell (or a crispy chip)!