Where does the word corny come from?

The word "corny" has a long and interesting history. It likely originated from the corncob, which is the central core of an ear of corn.

Here's how it evolved:

* Early use: In the late 1800s, "corny" was used to describe something that was rustic, simple, or unsophisticated, similar to the appearance of a corncob.

* Shift in meaning: Over time, the word's meaning shifted to describe something overly sentimental, clichéd, or hackneyed, like a joke that's been told too many times.

* Modern usage: Today, "corny" is commonly used to describe something that is cheesy, unoriginal, or lacking in sophistication, often associated with something considered outdated or unfashionable.

While the exact origins of the shift in meaning are unclear, it's likely connected to the association of corn with rural life, simple pleasures, and a lack of sophistication. This negative connotation later developed to describe anything perceived as excessively sentimental or predictable.