The evolution of language

I have learnt today that through the ages, until the early part of the 20th century, the insect featured in the image would have been known as a Humblebee (this one being a Queen red tailed humblebee). So called not because it is a modest insect, but because of the humming sound it makes as it flies.

Beatrix Potter’s Tale of Mrs Tittlemouse of 1910 has something to do with the change of name - Babbitty Bumble made mossy nests in the garden. And as aeroplanes started to appear and human flight in machines developed, the plump bumblebees flight seemed impractical and bumbling.

Language is a constantly evolving thing.