* Origins: The most widely accepted theory is that "bung" comes from the Old English word "bung", which means "a swelling, a bump, a protuberance." This makes sense considering the use of "bung" to describe a stopper for a container, as it suggests a plug that fills a hole or bulge.
* Evolution: Over time, the word "bung" evolved from referring to a bump to being specifically used to describe a stopper for a cask or barrel. This transition likely happened because barrels often had a slightly bulging shape around the opening, making the word "bung" a natural fit for the stopper.
* Other Theories: Some theories suggest that "bung" might be related to other Germanic words like "bang" or "bong" which are associated with a loud sound. However, these theories are not as widely accepted.
* Modern Usage: Today, "bung" is mainly used to refer to the stopper for a barrel or cask, but it can also be used more generally to describe any type of stopper or plug.
In summary, the word "bung" likely originated from the Old English word for a bump or swelling and evolved to become specifically associated with a barrel stopper. Its origins are still debated, but its use has been consistent for centuries.