Matter
/ˈmæt.ər/noun
The substance or material from which things are made.
Did you know?The Latin root of 'matter' relates to 'mother', suggesting that all physical substance is derived from a nurturing source, hinting at a deeper connection between creation and femininity.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*mater
“The concept of mother, representing nurturing and substance.”
Latin
Latin
materia
“Substance or material, often used in philosophical discussions about the physical world.”
Old French
Old French
matere
“The physical substance or material of which things are made.”
Middle English
Middle English
matere
“Substance or material, a term used in various contexts including philosophy.”
Modern English
English
matter
“The material substance of which physical objects are composed.”
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