* Origins: The word likely originated from the Hindi word "ḍinghi", which itself might have come from the Tamil word "tinni". These terms referred to small, lightweight boats used in South Asia.
* Early Records: While the exact date is unknown, "dinghy" first appeared in English written records around the mid-18th century. Early usage referred specifically to small boats used by British sailors in India.
* Evolution of Meaning: Over time, the meaning broadened. By the 19th century, "dinghy" started being used for small rowing boats used by larger ships. This use was particularly common in the context of sailing ships.
* Modern Usage: Today, "dinghy" is commonly used for a wide range of small, open boats, often used for recreational activities like sailing, rowing, or even as tenders for larger vessels.
Therefore, we can say that "dinghy" entered the English language around the mid-18th century, although its exact origin is still debated. It's important to remember that language evolution is a gradual process, and pinpointing the exact date of entry for a word can be challenging.