The Origin of the Flat Bits

The origin of the word for those thin, flat pieces can be traced back to ancient languages. It shares roots with terms for something broad and level. Over time, it evolved to describe not just the physical properties of these tiny fragments but also the act of separating into such pieces. From the world of nature, where snow and paint peel away in delicate layers, to the kitchen, where food is often prepared in similar fashion, this word has found a home in various aspects of our lives.