Words beginning with the letter “q” and containing the letter “h” are relatively uncommon in the English language. The most frequently encountered example is “quiche,” a savory, open-faced pastry tart. Other less common examples include “quahog,” a type of edible clam, and archaic terms like “quhilk,” a Middle English form of “which.” These terms often have specific culinary or historical contexts.
The scarcity of such words contributes to their distinctiveness. “Quiche,” for example, occupies a specific culinary niche, while “quahog” has regional significance, primarily within New England cuisine. Understanding the etymology and usage of these terms provides valuable insight into the evolution and nuances of the English language. The historical usage of words like “quhilk” offers glimpses into earlier forms of English and its development over time.