Etymology

Pronunciation: /ɛˈtɪməˌlədʒi/

Definitions of etymology

noun the study of the origin of words and the way in which their meanings have changed throughout history

Example Sentences

A1 Etymology is the study of the origin of words.

A2 Learning about the etymology of different languages can be fascinating.

B1 Understanding the etymology of a word can help you remember its meaning.

B2 Etymology can provide valuable insights into the historical development of a language.

C1 Scholars often delve deep into the etymology of ancient languages to uncover hidden meanings.

C2 The etymology of certain words can reveal connections between different cultures and civilizations.

Examples of etymology in a Sentence

formal The study of the etymology of words can provide insight into the history of language.

informal I find it fascinating to learn about the etymology of different words and how they have evolved over time.

slang I never realized how cool the etymology of slang words could be until I started looking into it.

figurative Understanding the etymology of a concept can help us trace its origins and development.

Grammatical Forms of etymology

• past tense: etymologized
• plural: etymologies
• comparative: more etymological
• superlative: most etymological
• present tense: etymologizes
• future tense: will etymologize
• perfect tense: has etymologized
• continuous tense: is etymologizing
• singular: etymology
• positive degree: etymological
• infinitive: to etymologize
• gerund: etymologizing
• participle: etymologized

Origin and Evolution of etymology

First Known Use: 1398 year

Language of Origin: Greek

Story behind the word: The word 'etymology' comes from the Greek word 'etymologia', which is derived from 'etymon' meaning 'true sense' and 'logia' meaning 'study of'.

Evolution of the word: Originally used in the late 14th century to refer to the study of the true meanings of words, 'etymology' has evolved to also encompass the historical development of words and their forms.