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OP I was struck by this word today, and began to wonder if it was derived from the bird or from some other source. I found this definition in Atomica:
rav·en·ous (răv'ə-nəs)
adj.
Extremely hungry; voracious.
Rapacious; predatory.
Greedy for gratification: ravenous for power. See synonyms at voracious.
[Middle English, from Old French ravineux, from raviner, to take by force, from Vulgar Latin *rapīnāre, from Latin rapīna, plunder. See rapine.]
This etymology, though sensible, doesn't quite satisfy me. I still think that the bird must be involved somehow! The OED definition of raven included this side note:
The common raven is easily tamed, but is mischievous and thievish, and has been popularly regarded as a bird of evil omen and mysterious character. (my emphasis)
Does anybody else think there might be a connection, or am I just out to lunch?
Entire Thread Subject Posted By Posted Raven-ous? Rapunzel 10/23/01 01:03 AM Re: Raven-ous? tsuwm 10/23/01 04:35 AM Re: Raven-ous? NicholasW 10/23/01 07:44 AM Re: Raven-ous? Rapunzel 10/23/01 03:34 PM Re: Raven-ous? stales 10/23/01 11:40 AM Re: Raven-ous? Faldage 10/23/01 01:38 PM
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