What Is The "Luke" In "Lukewarm?"

11 June 2019, 12:09 | Updated: 11 June 2019, 12:11

Evening sunshine in Brussels
Evening sunshine in Brussels. Picture: PA

Why do we say things are "lukewarm?"

Mystery Hour Question

Where did the word "luke" come from in "lukewarm?"
Name: Charlie, Chessington


Answer

There was an Old English word pronounced "lewk" which meant slightly sunny, or warm.

Later on, this turned into "lukewarm," which also meant being unenthusiastic about something.

Name: Phil, Reading
Qualification: General knowledge