'hodgepodge' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'hochepot', where 'hoche' meant 'to shake' and 'pot' referred to a pot or stew.

'hochepot' transformed into the English word 'hodgepodge', maintaining its meaning of a mixed stew or mixture.

Initially, it meant 'a stew of mixed ingredients', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a confused mixture or jumble'.