mummery

The story

1. Old French · derived frommommer
2. Middle French · derived frommomerie
3. English todaymummery

From Middle French momerie, mommerie, from Old French mommer, from momon. By surface analysis, mummer + -y.

First known use, by meaning

• from 15th c. Mumming; disguising oneself to perform as a mummer, or to take part in some other festivities or performance.
• from 16th c. A ridiculous or ostentatious ceremony, formerly especially of a religious nature; extravagant or hypocritical performance.