Definition of custard

The word "custard" originated in the late Middle English period in the 14th century. Its etymology can be traced back to the Old French word "crustard," which itself was derived from the Latin phrase "crustulus," meaning "little crust." The original custard in the Middle Ages was indeed a crusty dish - it was made by baking a mixture of milk, sugar, and eggs in a pastry shell, similar to a quiche. Over time, the pastry shell was omitted, and the dish evolved into the creamy and smooth dessert we know today. The word "custard" also had a different meaning in the early 1500s when it referred to a cooked and thickened sauce, often served with meats. This usage is now less common, and "sauce" or "gravy" is typically used to describe cooked, thickened liquids in contemporary English. In summary, the word "custard" came from an Old French word referring to a pastry dish, which in turn was derived from a Latin phrase meaning "little crust." Modern custards, however, bear little resemblance to their medieval predecessors, which were more like quiches than puddings. Despite this evolution, the term "custard" has persisted in English vocabulary, often affectionately referring to a sweet and creamy dessert.