Why is a Stint called a Stint?

Question

Why is a Stint called a Stint?

Answer 1

OIKOS - you will be interested to know that the word DOES have a zoological meaning. A Stint is a small wading bird known as a peep in N America. As to the origin of the name I have no idea.

Answer 2

The more widespread use of "stint" means to hold back or minimize. "Have some soup, and don't stint yourself."  So maybe a peep sandpiper looks like a regular sandpiper that someone stinted.

Answer 3

It is from the Middle English stynten, to stop, in turn from the Old English styntan, to stupify. Now, how does this relate to Zoology?

Answer 4

Why is a pavlova called a pavlova?

Ah... The mysteries of life...