/fah"shing/ , n.
a carnival celebration that precedes Lent in German-speaking countries and communities; Shrovetide.
[ 1910-15; vaschanc, vastschang, perh. equiv. to vast- Lent (G Fasten; see FAST 2 ) + schanc distribution or pouring of drinks, referring to the dispensing of liquor prohibited during Lent ]