Penetrate
/ˈpɛn.ə.treɪt/noun
To enter, pass through, or gain access to something.
Did you know?The word comes through Latin imagery of the inner depths, especially the hidden inner chambers called the penetralia—sacred or private spaces concealed from outsiders.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*en
“In, within; a reconstructed root associated with inward position.”
Classical Latin
Latin
penitus
“Within, inwardly, deeply; at the innermost part.”
Classical Latin
Latin
penetrare
“To enter into, go inside, or make one’s way deeply into.”
Late Latin
Latin
penetrāre
“To enter or pass through, including in figurative senses such as reaching the mind.”
14th–15th Century
Old French
penetrer
“To enter, pass into, or make one’s way through.”
Late 15th Century
English
penetrate
“To enter or pierce; later, to understand or discover something hidden.”
Modern English
English
penetrate
“To enter, pass through, or gain access to something, literally or figuratively.”