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.