• k0e3@lemmy.ca
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    4 days ago

    I wouldn’t be surprised if we learned it from the Germans as I don’t think the little guys are native to Japan!

    • samus12345@sh.itjust.works
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      3 days ago

      The Dutch and Portuguese were the most influential early foreigners, and it’s “washing bear” in Dutch as well, so they would be the prime suspect.

      • k0e3@lemmy.ca
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        3 days ago

        That’s true. I think we use German loan words mostly for medical stuff (probably not anymore).