Knew
/njuː/noun
The past tense of know, meaning to be aware of through observation, inquiry, or information.
Did you know?In ancient cultures, knowing was often linked to divine insight, making 'knew' more than just memory—it's about enlightenment!
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*ǵneh₁-
“to know or perceive, particularly through seeing.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
γινώσκω (ginōskō)
“to come to know, to recognize, often implying a deeper understanding.”
Old English
Old English
cnāwan
“to know, to perceive, often in a spiritual or instinctual sense.”
14th Century
Middle English
knew
“the past tense of 'know' indicating awareness or recognition.”
Modern English
English
knew
“the past tense of know, retaining its deep roots in perception and insight.”
Explore more surprising origins