lather
UK[ˈlɑːðə(r)]US[ˈlæðər]
n
A white, frothy mass of bubbles produced by soap or a similar substance when mixed with water.
n
A state of agitation or nervous excitement.
v
To cover something with or produce lather.
v
To become agitated or worked up.
Etymology
The word 'lather' originates from the Old English 'lēaþor', which referred to washing soda or a lye-based soap. This term is likely related to the Old Norse word 'lauðr', meaning foam. The core concept has always been connected to washing and froth. Over time, its meaning specialized to denote the frothy foam produced by soap, and later developed a figurative sense describing a state of flustered agitation, much like the vigorous action of working up a soapy foam.
Analysis
This is a simplex word of Old English origin. The core element 'lather' functions as a complete lexical unit.
Examples
He worked the shaving soap into a thick lather.
The horse was in a lather after its hard gallop.
Don't lather yourself up over such a minor issue.