Etymology Dictionary
Learn the Etymology of English Words
Welcome to WikiEtymology, your destination to explore the origin and etymology of English words. Our comprehensive etymology provides etymologies crafted by AI and reviewed by humans experts.
Let’s dive into the language history, tracing each word’s journey from its ancient roots to its modern form. While our etymologies provide valuable insights, we encourage visitors to use them in their own discretion, recognizing the dynamic nature of language evolution and the diversity of scholarly interpretations. Explore, learn, and discover the hidden stories behind the words we use every day at WikiEtymology.
Latest Etymologies
What is the Etymology of Xavier?
Origin and Etymology of Xavier in Chronological Order [Basque (11th century)] – The name Xavier originated from the Basque language in the 11th century. It is derived from the Basque word “etxaberri,” which means “new house.” This name was given to the Spanish missionary Saint Francis Xavier, who was born in the Castle of Xavier … Read more
Learn the Etymology of Mortgage
Origin and Etymology of Mortgage in Chronological Order [Latin (14th century)] The English word ‘mortgage’ can be traced back to the Latin term ‘mortuum vadium,’ which translates to ‘dead pledge.’ The term originated in the 14th century and referred to a legal arrangement where a borrower would offer their property as security for a loan. … Read more
Discover the Etymology of Knowledge
The etymology of the word “knowledge” can be traced back to the Old English word “cnawan,” which means “to know.” It has evolved through various ancient languages, including Latin and Greek, before reaching its current form in modern English. The word has undergone linguistic transformations and changes in meaning throughout history. Origin and Etymology of … Read more
Explore the Etymology of Holocaust
The etymology of the word “Holocaust” can be traced back to the Greek word “holokauston,” which means “a completely burnt sacrifice.” The term was later used in the context of the genocide of six million Jews during World War II, known as the Holocaust. Origin and Etymology of Holocaust in Chronological Order [Greek (200 BCE)] … Read more
What is the Etymology of Villain?
The word ‘villain’ originated from the Old French word ‘vilain’ which meant a peasant or a commoner. It evolved from the Latin word ‘villanus’ which referred to a farmhand or a servant. The term gradually acquired negative connotations and came to represent a wicked or evil person in modern English. Origin and Etymology of Villain … Read more
Exploring Etymology of Queue
The word ‘queue’ originated from the French word ‘cue’, which means “tail”. It then evolved through various languages and historical contexts to its current meaning in modern English. The etymology of ‘queue’ provides insights into its linguistic transformations and the historical context in which it developed. Origin and Etymology of Queue in Chronological Order [Latin … Read more
Etymology of Queen
The etymology of the word “queen” can be traced back to its root word in Old English, “cwen,” which means “woman” or “wife.” It has evolved through various ancient languages, including Old Norse, Old High German, and Old Saxon, before settling into its current form in modern English. The meaning of “queen” has undergone changes … Read more
Etymology of Freedom
The etymology of the word “freedom” can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root word “pri-“, meaning “to love” or “to please.” Over time, this root word evolved into various forms in different ancient languages, eventually leading to the modern English word “freedom.” The concept of freedom has undergone significant linguistic transformations and changes in … Read more
Discover the Etymology of February
The etymology of February can be traced back to the Latin word “februarius,” which is derived from “februa,” a Roman festival of purification. The name February itself signifies the month of purification. Origin and Etymology of February in Chronological Order [Latin (8th century BC)] The word February originated from the Latin word “februarius,” which was … Read more
Exploring Etymology of Oligarchy
The word ‘oligarchy’ is derived from the Greek words ‘oligos’, meaning ‘few’, and ‘arkhein’, meaning ‘to rule’. It refers to a form of government where power is held by a small group of people. The term has its roots in ancient Greece and has evolved over time to become a commonly used word in modern … Read more