sooterkin

noun

soot·​er·​kin

ˈsu̇tə(r)kə̇n,

ˈsüt-

plural -s

1

: an afterbirth formerly held to be produced by Dutch women

delivered of a sooterkin not unlike to a rat

—John Cleveland

2

: something that is imperfect or unsuccessful

especially : an imperfect literary composition

fruits of dull heat and sooterkins of wit

—Alexander Pope

3

archaic : dutchman

Word History

Etymology

probably from (assumed) Dutch dialect zoetkijn, diminutive of Dutch dialect zoet soot, from Middle Dutch soet

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now