Definition of tyke

The origin of the word "tyke" can be traced back to an Old Norse word known as "tikka," which meant "young puppy" or "little dog." When Viking raiders invaded England in the 9th century, they brought their language and culture with them. The English language absorbed many Norse words during this time, including "tyke," which was a variation of the Old Norse word "tikka." Originally, the word "tyke" was used to refer to young puppies and dogs, specifically those of the Spitz breed, which were popular among the Vikings. Over time, the meaning of the word broadened to include any young animal, particularly those that were wild or feral. By the 14th century, the meaning of the word began to shift towards its current usage as a slang term for a young or inexperienced criminal. It's believed that this usage stemmed from the fact that young criminals often resembled young puppies, representing a lack of discipline and training. Today, the word "tyke" is still used in colloquial English, most commonly as a colorful synonym for "kid" or "youngster." However, its origins in Old Norse and its associations with dogs and criminality continue to lend the word a distinctive character and interest.