Meaning & Definition of word "Etymology"

Etymology

/ˌɛtɪˈmɒlədʒi/

1. The study of the origin of words and how their meanings have changed throughout history.
- Example: The etymology of the word 'philosophy' traces back to the Greek roots 'philo' meaning 'love' and 'sophia' meaning 'wisdom.'
2. The origin of a particular word or phrase, including its historical development.
- Example: Understanding the etymology of the term 'computer' can give insights into its evolution from Latin roots meaning 'to calculate.'
3. A brief explanation of the origin of a word.
- Example: In her paper, she provided a detailed etymology of the word 'binge,' revealing its roots in the Old English 'binge' meaning 'to soak.'
4. The historical development of a language or language group.
- Example: Comparative etymology helps linguists reconstruct the features of ancient languages that are no longer spoken.
5. A segment of scholarly analysis concerning the linguistic and historical aspects of words.
- Example: Etymology has become increasingly important in the digital age, as new words emerge rapidly and their origins are often explored online.

From the Greek 'etymologia' which comes from 'etymon' meaning 'true sense' and 'logia' meaning 'study'.

To trace the etymology:

To investigate the origin and development of a word.

Etymological root:

The base form from which a word is derived.

Etymological dictionary:

A dictionary that provides the history and origin of words.

philology:

The study of language in written historical sources.

morphology:

The study of the structure of words.

lexicology:

The study of the form, meaning, and behavior of words.