Meaning and usage of the word quickie in English

The origin of the word "quickie" can be traced back to the 1940s, particularly during the time of World War II. It was commonly used by the pilots of the Royal Air Force, also known as the RAF, to refer to brief aerial combat encounters that were over in a relatively short amount of time. The term "quickie" was coined to emphasize the speed and brevity of these airborne engagements. The expression "quickie" might have initially been used to describe justifiable air-to-air combat situations, but it soon took on a new, less honorable meaning as it was adopted by people outside the aviation industry. By the 1950s, "quickie" had started to refer to sexual encounters that were brief, expedient, and often impromptu. The phrase "quickie marriage" also emerged during this time, denoting a speedy ceremony meant to circumvent various legal or social obstacles. Since the 1960s, the term "quickie" has continued to evolve, expanding its usage beyond the sexual context to describe any activity that is brief and straightforward, such as quick lunches or quick fixes. Despite its redefined meanings over time, the original aviation-related significance of "quickie" remains a fascinating part of its history, providing a glimpse into the origins of this versatile and colorful English word.