Etymology

mooncalf

M3O1O1N1C3A1L1F4

Today it means: An abnormal mass within the uterus; a false conception. Full definition →

First used 16th c.
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The story

From moon + calf, after a superstition that the moon caused abnormal fetal development.

First known use, by meaning

  • from 16th c. An abnormal mass within the uterus; a false conception.
  • from 17th c. A poorly conceived idea or plan.
  • from 17th c. A dreamer, someone absent-minded or distracted; a fool, simpleton.

Etymology from Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.