Definition of the word scone

The origin of the word "scone" can be traced back to the Old English word "scanan," which meant a "piece of solid food" or "cake." However, the modern usage of the word "scone" that we are familiar with refers to a type of baked good typically made with flour, butter, sugar, and dried fruit, such as raisins or cranberries. The Anglo-Saxons used the term "scanan" to describe various types of bread, cakes, and pastries, but the meaning shifted slightly in the Middle English era (1100-1485), where "scone" came to mean a type of rich bread or pastry eaten by the wealthy. This association with social status continued during the Victorian era, where scones became a popular food item served at high tea gatherings. It is believed that the current pronunciation of "scone" - with the stress on the second syllable - derives from its Scottish origin. In Scotland, scones are typically made without raising agents and are often served warm with butter and jam. The Oxford English Dictionary suggests that the unique Scottish pronunciation and meaning of the word may have been influenced by the Old Northern British language spoken in the region during the 7th century. In summary, the word "scone" has evolved over time, from its Old English roots as a general term for "solid food," to a more specific reference to a type of cake consumed by the upper classes, and finally to the beloved tea-time treat enjoyed throughout the English-speaking world today.