Definition of rack

The origin of the word "rack" can be traced back to the Old Norse language, where it was spelled as "hryggr" or "hrykkir," meaning a "spine" or "back." The word "hryggr" was borrowed into the Old English language around the 12th century, but it had already evolved into a different meaning. In its early English usage, "rack" referred to a frame used to ruck or trunk-up bundles of cloth or grain. This originated from the Old Norse "hryggja," a verb meaning "to wrinkle" or "to pack closely." However, in its more sinister usage, "rack" came to mean a device used in torture. This usage can be traced back to the late 14th century, when "rakke" was borrowed from the Middle Dutch word "rect," meaning "straight" or "upright." This referred to the upright structure of the torture device, which was used to stretch a victim's limbs or body in a painful and prolonged manner. Since then, the meaning of "rack" has continued to evolve, with its usage expanding to include alternative definitions such as a line, device, or shelf for holding objects, as well as a one-eyed monster from classical mythology. Overall, the origin of "rack" demonstrates the complex and varied ways that languages borrow and repurpose words from other languages, and how a single word can take on multiple meanings over time.