Responsible
/rɪˈspɒn.sɪ.bəl/noun
Having an obligation to do something or having control over someone or something.
Did you know?The word 'responsible' stems from Latin roots meaning 'to respond'—originally implying a spiritual accountability or duty to a higher authority.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
responsabilis
“Able to respond or answer; accountable.”
Old French
Old French
responsable
“Answerable or liable for something.”
14th Century
Middle English
responsible
“Liable to answer; accountable for actions or decisions.”
Modern English
English
responsible
“Having a duty to deal with something or having control over someone.”
Explore more surprising origins