Word
/wɜːrd/noun
A single distinct meaningful element of speech or writing.
Did you know?In ancient cultures, words were believed to hold power, with the ability to shape reality and summon forces beyond the mundane.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*werdʰ-
“To speak or say.”
Ancient Germanic
Old English
word
“A statement or utterance, something articulated.”
Old English
Old English
word
“A promise, command, or expression.”
Middle English
Middle English
worde
“A term or expression, often with legal implications.”
Modern English
English
word
“A fundamental unit of language, embodying meaning.”