It's believed to have originated in the 16th century, combining the words "wind" and "fall."
Here's the breakdown:
* Wind: This part refers to the natural force of air movement.
* Fall: This part indicates a sudden dropping or descent.
The original meaning: The word "windfall" initially referred to fruit that had been blown from trees by the wind and fallen to the ground. Imagine a farmer finding a large pile of apples or pears that had fallen from the orchard. It would be a fortunate and unexpected "windfall" for them.
The evolution of meaning: Over time, the meaning of "windfall" broadened to encompass any unexpected or sudden good fortune, like a large inheritance or a lottery win. This connection to something falling into your lap, like fruit from a tree, remains even though the literal meaning has shifted.
So, the next time you hear someone talk about a "windfall," remember the image of fruit falling from trees, and you'll understand the root of this word's meaning.