Definition of the word cobble together

The term "cobble together" originated in the early 19th century in England, where it referred specifically to the act of repairing old shoes by stitching together pieces of leather, known as cobbling. Considering cobblers were skilled artisans who could carefully manipulate and mend worn leather, the phrase "cobble together" came to mean creating something with limited resources or making do with whatever materials were available, as if one were piecing together a cobbled-together cobbler's creation. The phrase gained popularity in the 1800s and was used to describe various tasks, from repairing broken tools to constructing makeshift shelters. By the end of the century, it had entered common parlance and continued to be used today, often in settings where one is creating something from diverse parts, such as an improvised meal or a solution to a problem using uncommon resources. In essence, "cobble together" captures the creativity that arises from temporary fixes and provides a reminder that being resourceful and adaptive can lead to unexpected outcomes. The term remains a vivid expression that conveys a sense of ingenuity and tenacity, as if one is cobbling together their ideas or creations to produce something new out of old pieces.