National Piggie Day

Cute piglet snuggling with a farmer in a sunny, farmhouse setting, dressed in overalls and a straw hat..
National piggie day illustration

Welcome to National Piggie Day! Get ready to pig out on some fascinating pig facts and celebrate these porky pals in all their glory. From cute little piglets to sizzling bacon, this day is all about embracing the awesomeness of pigs. So, roll up your sleeves and let's dive into the piggiest day of the year!

When is Piggie Day?

It's national piggie day on the 1st March.


The Internet and National Piggie Day

National Piggie Day has taken the internet by storm, with pig enthusiasts from all around the world sharing their love for these curly-tailed critters. From pig-themed memes to adorable videos of piglets splashing around in mud puddles, the internet is bursting with pig-related content.

One of the most memorable moments in pig internet history occurred on March 1, 2016. This day witnessed a porcine pandemonium like no other, with 12 mentions of National Piggie Day flooding social media feeds. People couldn't resist sharing their favorite pig photos and stories, making it one of the swin-tastic celebrations of the year.

A True Feast for Pork Lovers

When it comes to celebrating National Piggie Day, there's no shortage of delicious treats to indulge in. It's the perfect excuse to whip up some mouthwatering bacon-wrapped pork tenderloins or savor a juicy pulled-pork sandwich. Vegetarians need not fret – there are plenty of plant-based alternatives that capture the flavor and texture of bacon or sausage. This day is all about embracing your inner foodie and giving a toast to our favorite oinkers.

Fun Fact: Pigs are Super Smart!

Did you know that pigs are incredibly intelligent animals? They rank fourth in intelligence, following humans, apes, and dolphins. Pigs have an excellent long-term memory, can learn tricks, and can even solve complex puzzles. So, the next time someone calls you a pig, take it as a compliment! It means you're one smart cookie.



History behind the term 'Piggie'


14th century

Origins of 'piggie'

During the 14th century, the term 'piggie' emerged as a diminutive form of the word 'pig.' It was primarily used as an endearing term to refer to a young or small pig.


1769

The origin of the term 'piggie'

The term 'piggie' was first recorded in 1769 as a diminutive form of the word 'pig.' It was commonly used to refer to a young domesticated pig, often kept as a pet or for commercial purposes. The term quickly gained popularity due to the endearing nature of piglets and their association with cuteness and playfulness.


1492

Origins in Old Norse

The term 'piggie' finds its roots in the Old Norse language. In 1492, during the Viking Age, the Old Norse word 'píki' was used to refer to a small pig or piglet. This term was commonly used among the Viking communities, where pigs were an important part of their agricultural practices. The Old Norse language played a significant role in shaping the term 'piggie' and its subsequent development through the years.



1749

The Origin of 'Piggie'

The term 'piggie' originated in 1749 with the word 'piggy,' which referred to a young pig. It was derived from the Middle English word 'pigge,' which meant 'young pig.' In colloquial usage, 'piggy' was often used to describe something small, cute, or chubby.


1769

Origin in English Language

The term 'piggie' first appeared in the English language in 1769 as a diminutive form of 'pig.' Originally used as a pet name or nickname for a pig, it conveyed a sense of affection or endearment towards these animals. The usage of 'piggie' reflected the cultural fascination with these creatures and their role in agriculture and food production.


1769

First recorded usage of 'piggie'

The term 'piggie' was first recorded in 1769. It is a diminutive form of the word 'pig,' which refers to a young swine. The term was likely used colloquially and affectionately to refer to a small or young pig.



1700s

The Origin

The term 'piggie' originated in the 1700s as a colloquial abbreviation of the word 'piglet', referring to a young pig. Pigs have always been an important part of agricultural communities, providing meat, lard, and leather. As a result, the term 'piggie' emerged as a way to affectionately refer to these adorable and chubby animals.


1675

The origins of 'piggie'

The term 'piggie' first emerged in the English language during the year 1675. Derived from the Middle English word 'pigge,' meaning young pig, 'piggie' became a commonly used affectionate term for pigs. This endearing nickname was likely influenced by the playful and friendly nature of piglets.


1899

Piggie Banks and Popularization

In 1899, the term 'piggie' gained further popularity through the invention of the 'piggy bank.' The first pig-shaped banks were produced by various companies around this time, and they quickly became a common way for children to save their money. The playful and endearing appearance of these banks further solidified the association between the term 'piggie' and cuteness or savings.



1825

Piggie as a slang term

By 1825, 'piggie' had started to be used as a slang term in some English-speaking regions. It was used to describe a person who was greedy, gluttonous, or had a voracious appetite. This usage likely stemmed from the association of pigs with their reputation for eating voraciously. The term was often applied playfully, but sometimes carried a negative connotation.


1883

'Piggie' in children's literature

In 1883, the term 'piggie' gained popularity in the realm of children's literature through the classic tale 'The Three Little Pigs.' This iconic story presented pigs as charming, relatable characters, further solidifying the endearing association of 'piggie' with these lovable farm animals.


16th century

Expansion of 'piggie' to refer to children

In the 16th century, the term 'piggie' began to extend its meaning beyond young pigs. It started to be used affectionately to refer to young children, especially in a playful or endearing context. The connection between the small and mischievous nature of both pigs and children likely contributed to the adoption of the term.



1611

Shakespeare's Contribution

In 1611, the renowned playwright William Shakespeare made a valuable contribution to the term 'piggie' through his play 'The Winter's Tale.' In the play, he used the word 'piggie' to refer to a small sow or young pig. Shakespeare's influential usage of the term helped solidify its presence in the English language and popularize it among the general public. The inclusion of 'piggie' in one of Shakespeare's works served as a stepping stone for its cultural acceptance and usage in subsequent centuries.


1830s

Children's Literature

In the 1830s, 'piggie' gained popularity through children's literature. Authors and illustrators, such as Beatrix Potter, brought pigs to life in their stories, and 'piggie' became a term used by children to refer to these lovable characters. This usage further solidified 'piggie' as a playful and endearing term.


19th century

Emergence in children's literature

During the 19th century, the term 'piggie' gained popularity in children's literature. It was used to depict adorable and mischievous pig characters in numerous stories and nursery rhymes. This usage helped cement 'piggie' as a term associated with cute and endearing pig-like traits.



1930s

Children's Literature

In the 1930s, the term 'piggie' gained popularity through children's literature. Various books featured anthropomorphic pigs as main characters, often using the term 'piggie' to refer to the adorable swine protagonists. This usage expanded the term's reach beyond just live pigs and cemented its association with cuteness and innocence in the minds of readers, both young and old.


1895

Popularization in Children's Literature

During the late 19th century, the term 'piggie' gained further popularity through its inclusion in children's literature. In 1895, Beatrix Potter, a beloved British author and illustrator, introduced the character 'Piggy-wig' in her book 'The Tales of Pigling Bland.' This character was a small pig and played a significant role in captivating the imagination of young readers. Beatrix Potter's influential work contributed to the widespread usage of 'piggie' as a term of endearment for small pigs or piglets in children's literature and beyond.


18th century

Usage of 'piggie' in nursery rhymes

By the 18th century, 'piggie' had become a popular term in nursery rhymes and children's literature. The term was often used in the context of stories involving pigs, again associating the playfulness and innocence of young children with these beloved animals.



1920s

Piggie in Children's Literature

During the 1920s, 'piggie' started appearing more frequently in children's literature. Authors and illustrators began using the term to refer to adorable and mischievous pig characters, often portraying them as lovable and relatable. This increased the cultural impact of the term and further embedded it in popular imagination.


1967

Children's Song

The children's song 'This Little Piggy' further popularized the term 'piggie' in 1967. The song, which involved a playful interaction with a child's toes, used 'piggie' as a term of endearment for each toe. This amusing and engaging rhyme increased the familiarity of the term among children and became a memorable part of their early language development.


1933

The rise of 'piggie' in popular culture

During the year 1933, the lovable cartoon character 'Babe,' a talking pig, made his debut in the popular comic strip 'Porky.' This endearing character captured the hearts of audiences across the world, reinforcing the positive and affectionate image of pigs. 'Piggie' became a term of endearment not only for pigs but also for individuals who shared similar characteristics, such as being cute, playful, or mischievous.



Early 20th century

Adoption as a nickname

In the early 20th century, 'piggie' started to be used affectionately as a nickname, particularly among close friends and family. The term's playful and friendly connotation made it an ideal choice for endearing nicknames for loved ones.


1940s

Comics and Cartoons

During the 1940s, 'piggie' made its way into the world of comics and cartoons. Notable characters like Porky Pig and Piglet from Winnie-the-Pooh became fan favorites, cementing 'piggie' as a term associated with cute and sometimes mischievous pig characters. These characters played a huge role in popularizing the term among children and adults alike.


1901

Piggie in children's literature

In 1901, Beatrix Potter introduced the beloved character 'Pigling Bland' in her children's book of the same name. The story revolved around Pigling Bland, a timid and kind-hearted pig, who found himself on an adventure. This literary depiction of a pig with a unique personality and relatable characteristics further popularized the term 'piggie' as an endearing and lovable term for young pigs.



1960s

Introduction to pop culture

The term 'piggie' experienced a surge in popularity during the 1960s, thanks to its integration into pop culture. The iconic rock band, The Beatles, released their famous song 'Piggies' in 1968, which featured the term 'piggies' in the lyrics. This further solidified 'piggie' as a widely recognized term with cultural significance.


1980s

Endearing Pet Nickname

In the 1980s, 'piggie' took on a new meaning as an endearing nickname for pet pigs. With the rise in popularity of mini pigs as pets, people began referring to their adorable porcine companions as 'piggies'. This trend not only reflected the growing pet pig ownership but also showcased the affectionate bond between humans and their pigs.


1950s

Piggie banks

During the 1950s, pig-shaped coin banks, known as 'piggie banks,' became popular around the world. Shaped like pigs and often made of ceramic or porcelain, these piggy banks were designed to encourage children to save money. The association between pigs and saving money solidified the term 'piggie' as a symbol of thriftiness and taught generations the importance of financial responsibility.



1990s

'Piggie' in slang and internet culture

Throughout the 1990s, 'piggie' found a place in slang and internet culture. As a term of endearment, it became popular among friends and couples, emphasizing camaraderie or affection. The advent of digital communication platforms allowed 'piggie' to spread even further, often used playfully as an online nickname or username. This internet presence helped pave the way for 'piggie' to become a beloved term within online communities.


1960s

Piggie as a Term of Endearment

In the 1960s, 'piggie' started to be used as a term of endearment. People would affectionately call loved ones or friends 'piggie' as a playful and cute nickname. This usage showcased the semantic shift of the term from solely referring to pigs to conveying warmth and affection.


20th century

Widening of 'piggie' to represent cuteness

During the 20th century, 'piggie' took on a broader meaning and became a colloquial term to convey cuteness and endearment. This extended usage was not limited to children or animals; it could be used lovingly to describe anything or anyone charming or adorable.



1957

Cultural Significance in Pigtailed Hairstyles

The year 1957 marked a significant cultural association of the term 'piggie' with pigtailed hairstyles. Inspired by the curly tails of pigs, the term 'piggie' started being used to describe the style of tying hair into two braids or pigtails. This hairstyle gained popularity among young girls and became a fashionable trend. The connection between 'piggie' and pigtailed hairstyles added a playful and endearing connotation to the term, strengthening its cultural impact and expanding its usage beyond just referring to pigs.


1995

Digital Culture

With the rise of digital culture in the 1990s, the term 'piggie' gained a new context. In online communities and chat rooms, 'piggie' was sometimes used as a slang term to refer to someone who was greedy or excessive in their material desires. This usage drew a parallel between the behavior of pigs and certain human characteristics, introducing a playful yet slightly derogatory connotation to the term.


Present Day

Social Media and Memes

In the present day, 'piggie' has transcended its original context to become a widespread term of endearment for any small and cute animal, regardless of species. Social media platforms have played a significant role in popularizing 'piggie' as a term used in various meme formats and hashtags. From piggie videos to piggie-themed merchandise, the term continues to evoke feelings of warmth and adoration towards all things adorable and tiny.



Modern Era

Popularity of 'piggie' in pet culture

In the modern era, 'piggie' has also gained popularity in the context of pets, specifically referring to pet pigs. It has become a term of endearment among pig owners and enthusiasts, highlighting the bond between humans and their porcine companions.


Present day

Piggie in popular culture

In modern times, 'piggie' has become a recognizable term, often used in cute and endearing contexts. The term is commonly used to refer to young pigs, particularly piglets, or as a playful nickname for someone who is fond of pigs or displays pig-like qualities. Additionally, 'piggie' continues to be associated with saving money, with piggy banks remaining a prevalent symbol of children's savings.


Present day

Continued usage and adaptation

In the present day, 'piggie' remains a beloved term, often used to describe anything associated with pigs in a cute or affectionate manner. The term has been adapted and popularized in various forms, from animated TV shows featuring adorable pig characters to plush toys and merchandise. It continues to be used as a term of endearment and stands as a testament to the enduring fascination with pigs in popular culture.



Present

Cute and Playful Term

Today, the term 'piggie' continues to be used in multiple contexts. Whether it's as a beloved character in children's stories, a nostalgic reference to a childhood song, or an affectionate nickname for pigs, 'piggie' remains a cute and playful term in popular culture. Its versatile history and cultural impact have solidified 'piggie' as a term that elicits warm feelings and a sense of charm.


1981

Internet Slang and Emoji Usage

With the rise of the internet and digital communication, the term 'piggie' experienced a new form of expression. In 1981, the emergence of internet slang led to the adoption of 'piggie' as an abbreviation for 'piggyback,' indicating support or agreement with a previous statement. Additionally, the widespread use of pig emojis representing cuteness, playfulness, and sometimes laziness further solidified the term 'piggie' in the digital lexicon. The combination of internet slang and emoji usage added a contemporary layer to the evolution of 'piggie' as a cultural term.


Today

Piggie in Pop Culture

Today, 'piggie' remains a popular term to describe anything cute, small, or chubby. It has become deeply ingrained in pop culture, appearing in media such as cartoons, children's books, and even merchandise. The term continues to evolve and adapt to contemporary usage, maintaining its charming and endearing connotations.



Present day

Continued endearment and cultural significance

In modern times, 'piggie' continues to evoke warmth and affection. Pigs are often associated with positive attributes such as intelligence, curiosity, and loyalty, further enhancing the term's endearing connotation. Whether used to describe adorable farm animals, beloved children's characters, or cherished companions, 'piggie' remains an enduring term of endearment that reflects the deep love and connection humans have with pigs.


Did you know?

Pigs are actually quite intelligent animals, ranking fourth in intelligence behind humans, apes, and dolphins. They can learn tricks and solve puzzles!

Tagged

nsfw food fun

First identified

1st March 2016

Most mentioned on

1st March 2016

Total mentions

12

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