The common name for a hedgehog is, well, hedgehog. But did you know that this name actually has an interesting origin? It came into use around the year 1450 and is derived from the Middle English word “heyghoge.” This word is a combination of “heyg” or “hegge,” which means “hedge” and refers to the hedgerows that hedgehogs often frequent, and “hoge” or “hogge,” which means “hog” and refers to the pig-like snout of the hedgehog.
Of course, hedgehog is not the only name by which this spiky creature is known. Another common name is urchin, which is often used to describe the hedgehog’s prickly appearance. In fact, the word urchin originally meant “hedgehog” in Old English. Additionally, hedgepig is a name that is sometimes used, likely because of the hedgehog’s pig-like snout. Yet another name for the hedgehog is furze-pig, which refers to its habit of living in areas with dense vegetation, such as furze or gorse bushes.
Now, let’s dive a bit deeper into the etymology of these names. The term “urchin” originally referred to a hedgehog or a similarly spiky animal. Over time, it came to be used more broadly to refer to any small, mischievous creature. In fact, the word “urchin” is still used today to describe mischievous or street-smart children. It’s interesting how the name of a small, spiky animal has come to be associated with playful mischief!
As for “hedgepig,” the name likely arose from the hedgehog’s physical resemblance to a pig, particularly its snout. The combination of “hedge” and “pig” in this name is a straightforward way to describe this resemblance.
We have “furze-pig,” which highlights the hedgehog’s preference for living in areas with dense vegetation, such as furze or gorse bushes. This name draws attention to the hedgehog’s habitat and its ability to navigate through thorny environments unscathed, thanks to its protective spines.
The common name for a hedgehog is indeed hedgehog. However, there are several other names that have been used throughout history to describe this fascinating creature, including urchin, hedgepig, and furze-pig. Each of these names offers a unique perspective on the hedgehog’s appearance, habitat, or behavior. It’s intriguing to explore the origins and meanings behind these different names and how they contribute to our understanding of this prickly little animal.