Why the B in B.S.?

Dates back to the 17th century from the old French word bole, meaning deceit/fraud.

I read somewhere that, apart from its meaning, profanity has a pleasant sound, is euphonic. I suspect that holds for both B.S. and what is stands for.

I have frequently heard “horseshit” – like “what Trump said was total horseshit”.

I’ve also hear ‘chickenshit’ – like “the Yankess have a chickenshit team this year”.

Never heard goats, pigs, oxen, or other animals.

Horse, like bull, is there, undeniably. Usually in a large amount.

Horseshit is used frequently. It’s a higher level than bullshit. Don’t forget chickenshit, but that of course has a different meaning. I think. B.S. is just a more recognized.

You didn’t see that horse and chicken were both in my details?

I’m just asking, why “bull”? It’s the most-used term, to the point that it has its own abbreviation. How did the bull get to be the standard for meaning ignorant, stupid, worthless, or deceitful talk?

Because bull shit is giant compared to other farm yard animals.

It may be because of the sound. Boo and bah are similar. They all make sounds that express contempt or anger.

Have you ever seen a Hippo poop? They twirl their tails really fast and when the poop comes out it’s flung far and wide in every direction. Fascinating! And that’s no bull!

So everyone so the Cotton Eye Joe!! Stepped in what? Bull Shit! Just sounds better than horse shit or hippo shit.

Asked & answered!

For 19th century Americans, bull shit was an everday occurence, and anyone on a farm knew it was even messier than cowshit. Most people never saw hipposhit, elephant shit, or even ox shit.

Middle English “bull”.

Though the etymology for “bollocks” (which I’m guessing is related) goes back to “ballocks” (clergy). And some say it that refers to how many people thought they were full of it. :P

Then there’s the the ‘Papal Bull’ wikipedia referring to a serious public decree issued by the pope, and having the seal (bull) attached to the bottom of the decree.

(Bulla means ‘boil’ in this context, referring the fact that the metal seal had to be warmed up to receive the seal, which was pounded or embossed into it).

So “that’s a lot of bull” could refer to an unwelcome message from the pope.