fairing

fairing · noun¹

From fair (“community gathering, market”). In the sense of food, because cakes and sweets were sold at fairs.

fairing · verb, noun²

From fair (“to smoothen or even a surface”).

First known use, by meaning

• from 16th c. A gift or other souvenir bought at a fair.
• from 16th c. A present, especially given by a lover.
• from 18th c. Something that is deserved; one's deserts.
• from 19th c. A type of small gingerbread biscuit; a ginger nut.
• from 20th c. A covering on various parts of a vehicle, for example an aircraft, automobile, or motorcycle, that streamlines it (i.e., produces a smooth exterior and reduces drag).