The Why of Words

#3: Fee — Medieval Wealth Was Actually Just Cows


Listen Later

Explore the surprising origins of the word "fee" in this etymology deep dive. Contrary to common assumption, fee has nothing to do with payment or charges—it actually traces back to Old English feoh, meaning cattle or livestock, reflecting how wealth was measured in Germanic cultures.

---
More from Sticky Note Podcasts:
Deep in the Stacks (daily jazz vinyl) | Required Drinking (cocktail history) | Photography Knowledge (daily photo tips)
stickynotepodcasts.com
...more
View all episodesView all episodes
Download on the App Store

The Why of WordsBy Sticky Note Podcasts