Smarten
/ˈsmɑːr.tən/noun
To make or become smarter, neater, or more presentable.
Did you know?The verb began with the idea of something hurting sharply, preserving a linguistic link between intelligence, cleverness, and the sensation of a sting.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*smerd-
“To sting, bite, or cause pain; a reconstructed root associated with sharp hurt.”
Proto-Germanic
PGmc
*smartijaną
“To cause pain or be painful.”
Old English
Old English
smeortan
“To hurt, sting, or cause a sharp sensation.”
Middle English
Middle English
smerten
“To feel or cause pain; later, to show quickness or cleverness.”
16th Century
English
smart
“Sharp or painful; subsequently, brisk, lively, or clever.”
17th Century
English
smarten
“To make smarter or more stylish; formed with the verb-forming suffix -en.”
Modern English
English
smarten
“To improve in intelligence, appearance, or effectiveness.”
Explore more surprising origins