An Etymological Dictionary of the German Language/Wisch

by Friedrich Kluge

Wisch, m., ‘rag, clout, wisp,’ from the equiv. MidHG. wisch, OHG. wisc, m.. to which MidHG. and ModHG. wischen, OHG. wisken, is allied. Comp. OIc. visk, ‘bundle,’ and also E. wisp with a labial instead of a guttural. The base wisku, wisq, wisp, may e connected with Lat. virga (from wízgâ?).