Definition of the word rankle

The origin of the word "rankle" can be traced back to the old English language, where it was known as "hrincgan". This word was derived from the Old English verb "hrincgān", which meant "to crush, grind, or yield an intensive ache". It was used to describe a condition where an instigated wound would slowly fester and cause discomfort, resulting in a low-grade, persistent pain. Over time, the meaning of the word evolved, and during the Middle English period, it came to mean "to gnaw, graze or degrade". This new meaning possibly stemmed from the fact that a painfully crushed, deteriorating injury could resemble the nibbling of teeth on a wound. The exact origin of how the word evolved into its current spelling and pronunciation is unclear. However, it's believed that the present-day form of the word was heavily influenced by Old Norse, a language spoken in Scandinavia during medieval times. Today, the term "rankle" is used to describe a chronic sore or inflammation, typically caused by bacteria that are resistant to healing. It commonly occurs in moist, dark environments and often results from poor hygiene or a failure in wound treatment. Despite being a nuisance, rankles are not life-threatening unless they become infected.