What are some words from the English language that have changed over time
English is a constantly evolving language with new words added regularly, and old ones falling out of use. Many words and phrases we use today have undergone significant changes throughout history. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at some words from the English language that have changed over time.
1. Nice
Today, the word ‘nice’ is used to describe something pleasant, enjoyable or agreeable. However, in the past, the word had quite a different meaning. Derived from the Latin word ‘nescius’, meaning ignorant or unaware, ‘nice’ originally referred to someone who was foolish or silly.
Its meaning began to shift in the 16th century, when it came to mean something more like ‘fastidious’ or ‘picky,’ and by the 18th century, it came to mean pleasing or agreeable.
2. Gay
The word ‘gay’ has undergone a significant change in meaning over the last century. It originally meant something along the lines of ‘lively’ or ‘joyful’ and wasn’t necessarily tied to sexual orientation.
However, in the 20th century, it took on a new meaning as a way to describe people who identified as homosexual. Today, the word is still used in both contexts, although it leans more towards the latter, which is a case that shows how social and political changes reflect the meaning of a word
3. Awful
Today, the word ‘awful’ is used to describe something that is unpleasant or bad. However, its original meaning was quite the opposite. In the Middle Ages, the word ‘awful’ was used to describe something that inspired feelings of awe or reverence.
It wasn’t until the 19th century that the word’s meaning began to shift, and it began to be used to describe something that was terrible or unpleasant.
4. Computer
The word ‘computer’ used to refer to a person who performed mathematical calculations by hand. It wasn’t until the 20th century that the word began to refer to machines that perform these calculations electronically.
The meaning of ‘computer’ has continued to evolve over the last few decades, as technological advancements have continued to reshape our understanding of what a computer is and what it can do.
Conclusion
The English language is full of words that have undergone significant changes in meaning over time. Some words have shifted in meaning only slightly, while others have been transformed completely. Understanding and keeping track of these changes can help us communicate more effectively and appreciate the history of our language.
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