What is the difference between “pipets” and “kapets” and how they appeared in our everyday language

For some of us, the lexemes “pipets” and “kapets” are unacceptable and are strongly associated with a poor vocabulary and gaps in education. But for most, these words are part of the language, no worse or better than the words “nightmare” or “incredible.” Yes, everyone knows them, but only scientists can tell about their origin.

“Kick-Ass,” apparently, has no etymological basis and, accordingly, no beautiful history. Most likely, this lexeme can be closely related to the no less popular word “scribe”. Most of our compatriots are sure that these expressions are based on an obscene word, which they replace in certain circumstances.

Experts in the field of philology do not argue with this and only add that in the Russian language there are many words beginning with “pi” or “pip” that mean something bad, indecent, or, at least, extremely unexpected. Disgrace, and that's all. So, if you value your reputation, try to avoid this type of exclamation in polite society.

But the word “kapets”, although very similar in sound and almost identical in meaning, can claim to be decent. It is much older than the modern youth “kick-ass”, as it has been recorded in literature since 1958. Upon closer examination, experts distinguish between the meanings of the lexemes “kapets” and “kick-ass.”

In Russian, “kapets” means the end of everything, collapse and death. This word most likely comes from the term “kopets”, known back in the 17th century. It marked the boundary, the border division of two territories, usually in the form of a ditch or, conversely, an embankment. The border of the Russian Empire and the Kingdom of Norway used to be called “Catherine’s Kopets”. It turns out that this word comes from the verb “to dig”, but over time it acquired the letter “a” in colloquial speech.

So “kapets” sounds, although not entirely intelligent, but still has nothing to do with swear words and has the right to life in the speech of a modern person, if it is not abused, of course. Did you know that the expression “hug and cry” appeared because of the tragic love story of the Russian classic?