Nugget
/ˈnʌɡɪt/noun
A small, solid lump or piece of a substance, often gold or other valuable materials.
Did you know?The word 'nugget' may have originated from a rare Old English term for a 'small lump' of something valuable, linking it to ancient treasure-hunting lore.
Etymological Timeline
Middle English
English
nugget
“A small lump or mass, often used in reference to precious metals.”
Late 19th Century
English
nugget
“Specifically referring to gold nuggets found in rivers or streams.”
Early 20th Century
English
nugget
“Used to describe small, valuable pieces of anything, extending beyond just gold.”
Modern English
English
nugget
“Now commonly refers to small pieces of food, especially chicken nuggets.”