Why mess (the eating area in hostels) is called mess, I mean really why?

Question

This question always boggles my mind, i mean literally every time. And definitely yours too. So any idea, why is it named so :-P

Answer 1

The word’s origins comes from the old French word “mes” with translates in English to “a dish”. A few hundred years ago, a few people used to eat from the same dish at once on ships or anywhere that has limited space or food, hence the origin of the meaning.  Modern French speakers do not pronounce it “mes” instead they say “met”. However, the old French word has carried on into the English speaking communities and has stuck ever since as “mess”.

Comments

Thanks alot for this information even me I was wondering the origin of this word while in campus. Thanks a lot. 

Answer 2

The term "mess" in the context of a dining area in hostels or military barracks likely originates from the French word "mes," which means a portion of food. Over time, the term has come to refer to a communal dining area where people share meals.