Definition of sprinkle

The word "sprinkle" originally derives from the Old Norse word "sprinkla," which means "to spatter." This Scandinavian word made its way into Old English, where it was transformed into "sprenklan" or "sprenkan." Over time, the word changed shape as it appeared in various regional dialects, but its meaning remained the same. In Middle English, "sprenklen" became "sprynklen," and in Early Modern English, it transformed into "sprynkelyng" or "sprenkelyng." By the 16th century, the term "sprinkle" had been established as a synonym for scattering small droplets or particles. It came to be associated with the religious practice of sprinkling holy water as a form of blessing or purification, which can be traced back to the early Christian tradition. In the early 20th century, the word "sprinkle" gained new usage beyond religious contexts, particularly in cooking and baking. It came to describe the act of pouring or dispersing small amounts of seasoning, sugar, or other ingredients over a dish or beverage as a decorative or flavorful touch. Today, the verb "to sprinkle" is widely used in everyday English, both in religious and secular contexts, and continues to evoke the meaning of scattering and dispersing small particles.