Definition of the word hodgepodge

The origin of the word "hodgepodge" can be traced back to the Middle English word "god dōd," meaning "God's death." This phrase referred to a dish made on Good Friday, when England's strict religious laws prohibited the consumption of meat. The dish was typically made with herring, onions, and spices, and leftover ingredients from other meals. Over time, the dish and its name evolved. The phrase "hodge podge" was first recorded in the 16th century, used to describe a variety of ingredients mixed together in a stew. By the 18th century, the word "hodgepodge" was commonly used to refer to a mixture of things, both culinary and otherwise. Interestingly, the word "hodgepodge" was rather pejorative at first, implying a lack of refinement or organization. It wasn't until the 19th century that the word gained a more positive connotation, meaning a delightful mix of things. Today, "hodgepodge" is commonly used to describe a diverse collection of things, from a mixed bag of fruits and vegetables to a eclectic group of people or ideas.