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The now-English word 'shampoo' comes from the Hindi word 'champo.' However, its meanings have changed during its transition from Hindi to English.

The Hindi word 'champo' is the imperative (command/order) form of the verb 'champna' which means "to press, or knead with the muscles."

Consequently, when the word 'shampoo' first appeared as a verb in written English in 1762 it was used with the meaning "to massage."

It wasn't until 1860 that the meaning "to wash the hair" was first recorded. In 1866 we see the first appearance of a special noun for 'the soap for shampooing', i.e. shampoo!

Later, in 1954 we also started shampooing our carpets and upholstery, and then our car seats, and maybe even our poodles!

For dictionary reference, see 'Related links' below.

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15y ago

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