Bacon

[Bugs]

Why are slices of bacon called "rashers"? I have a butchers shop & somebody asked me today. I thought somebody on AB might know. Thanks.

[natalie_1982]

Don't know the answer I'm afraid, but try posting the question a second time in "Phrases and Sayings" - all the wordy people tend to be there - I'm always amazed at how they find the origins of words!

[WeAreBongo]

Taken from some Wordy website:

The origin of "rasher" is uncertain, but it is probably related to the French "raser" (to cut or shave) which also gave us "raze" (to destroy or obliterate) and "razor." "Rasher" first appeared in English in the late 16th century.

[shaneystar2]

The origin of "rasher" is uncertain, but it is probably related to the French "raser" (to cut or shave) which also gave us "raze" (to destroy or obliterate) and "razor." "Rasher" first appeared in English in the late 16th century. Or ...
The word may come from the Danish and/or from the Icelandic "rask" or "roskr" and "roskna" according to some wordsmiths. The phrase "to razzle" which means "to cook meat at or over the fire" may be derived from these old words.
Or have a look here
Scroll down to ..rasher .

[Bugs]

Thanks everybody. I will feel very knowledgable if I get asked that in the shop anytime in the future. I knew you ABers would come up with an explanation. Most people nowadays ask for slices, not rashers.