Why? The word "hobbit" predates Tolkien and was used in a variety of ways. It might seem pedantic, but while the use of old words is one thing, there is a trend as of late whereby authors who popularize old words then claim ownership. Tolkien is beyond this but others such as the Potter franchise are not (Padfoot).
The parallels are pretty unmistakable. I believe the good Professor when he says he could recall no prior inspiration for the word, but: Bag-End. That's the Hobyah's whole thing, the bag. That and turnips.
Why? The word "hobbit" predates Tolkien and was used in a variety of ways. It might seem pedantic, but while the use of old words is one thing, there is a trend as of late whereby authors who popularize old words then claim ownership. Tolkien is beyond this but others such as the Potter franchise are not (Padfoot).
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hobbit_(unit) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hobbit_(word)