frog [OE] In the Middle Ages to call someone a frog was a general term of abuse. In the 17th century it was used for a Dutchman or for the French: this was probably partly due to alliteration, and partly to the reputation of the French for eating frogs’ legs. Someone who is finding it hard to speak because they are hoarse may be described as having a frog in the throat. The expression dates from the mid 19th century, but ‘frog’ here goes back to an earlier meaning of a soreness or swelling in the mouth or throat. Frog [M17th] for a decorative fastening does not seem to be the same word and its origin is unknown.