Titheling
/ˈtaɪθ.lɪŋ/noun
A small or young tithe, historically referring to a tenth of produce or income given as a contribution to the church.
Did you know?In medieval times, tithe payments could be so burdensome that they often led to peasant revolts against the church!
Etymological Timeline
Old English
OE
tȳð
“a tenth part, often of agricultural produce or income, given to the church.”
Middle English
ME
titheling
“a diminutive form denoting a small or young tithe.”
14th Century
ME
tithe
“a religious obligation to give one-tenth of earnings or produce.”
Modern English
English
titheling
“continues as a term for a small or young tithe, reflecting historical practices.”