The term “etymology” comes from the Greek word “ἐτυμολογία” (etymología), which means “the study of the true sense (of a word).” Here’s a detailed chronological breakdown: 1. Proto-Indo-European (PIE) The PIE root “*u̯et-” means “true” or “real.” 2. Ancient Greek From the PIE root, the Ancient Greek word “ἔτυμον” (étymon) developed, meaning “true sense” or “true meaning.” The suffix “-λογία” (-logia) comes from “λόγος” (logos), meaning “word,” “study,” or “science.” Combined, “ἐτυμολογία” (etymología) means “the study of the true sense (of words).” 3. Latin The Greek “ἐτυμολογία” (etymología) was adopted into Latin as “etymologia,” retaining the same meaning of “the study of the true sense (of words).” 4. Old French… Read More
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