A type of simple shoe, traditionally made of wood.

Origin: The word 'sabot' originated in Middle French from the Old French term 'sabot,' which itself came from 'savate,' meaning an old shoe. It was used to describe a basic wooden shoe used by peasants. The term possibly has a connection to the Old Dutch 'sabat,' which shares a similar meaning. Historical and Cultural Context: Wooden shoes or clogs were widely used in medieval Europe, particularly by the working class, as they provided durability and protection from the elements. The first known use of the term in French dates back to the 15th century. Evolution: The term 'sabot' has remained relatively unchanged in French, but it has influenced the English language, notably in the word 'sabotage,' which derives from the idea of workers throwing a 'sabot' into machinery to disrupt operations. Modern Relevance: Today, 'sabot' primarily refers to traditional wooden clogs, often associated with French and Dutch cultural attire. The word is still used to describe specific types of footwear and has a niche role in fashion and cultural identity.

The word 'sabotage' is believed to have originated from the practice of workers throwing their wooden shoes, or 'sabots,' into machinery to halt production as a form of protest.