English
/ˈɪŋ.ɡlɪʃ/noun
The language of the people of England, now widely spoken around the world.
Did you know?The term 'English' derives from the Angles, a Germanic tribe, whose name is linked to the Old English word for 'narrow' or 'corner', hinting at their origins along the shores of the North Sea.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Germanic
PGmc
*Englaz
“The name of a group of people who settled in Britain, meaning 'the Angles'.”
Old English
OE
Englisc
“Relating to the Angles; the language spoken by the people of England.”
Middle English
ME
Englische
“The form of the language evolving from Old English, influenced by Norman French.”
Modern English
ModE
English
“The fully developed language spoken today, incorporating vast influences from Latin, French, and other languages.”