Definition of the word crotch

The word "crotch" has a fascinating history! It originates from Old English, where it was spelled "croc" or "crocch". The term referred to the crook or bend of a leg, particularly the joint where the thigh and leg meet. This sense of the word has been retained in modern English. Over time, the term took on a new meaning in the 15th century, specifically referring to the area between the legs, particularly a woman's genital area. This usage is thought to have arisen from the Old English phrase "wamcroc", which referred to the groin or genital area. Interestingly, the word "crotch" has undergone a semantic shift, from initially referencing a bodily joint to subsequently referring to a more sensitive and private area. Despite this, the original sense of the word remains, demonstrating the dynamic nature of language and its ability to evolve over time.