aphetic etymology

Meaning:

Aphetic etymology refers to the process of deriving a word from another word by removing one or more sounds from the beginning of the word.

Origin:

The term "aphetic etymology" comes from the Greek word "aphesis," meaning "a taking away" or "omission." It was first used in the early 19th century by German linguist Jacob Grimm in his groundbreaking work "Deutsche Grammatik" (German Grammar).

How it Works:

In aphetic etymology, the initial sound(s) of a word are omitted, resulting in a new word with a different meaning. The process can occur naturally through linguistic evolution or be intentionally employed for stylistic or poetic purposes.

Examples:

• Esquire (from "ecuyer," meaning "shield bearer")
• Hostess (from "host," meaning "one who receives guests")
• Phone (from "telephone," meaning "distance speaker")
• Plane (from "aeroplane," meaning "air machine")
• Flu (from "influenza," meaning "influence")

Implications:

Aphetic etymology can shed light on the historical development of language and the relationship between different words. It can also provide insights into the cultural and social factors that shape language usage.

Importance:

Understanding aphetic etymology is essential for linguists, etymologists, and scholars interested in tracing the origins and meanings of words. It provides a valuable tool for reconstructing language history and exploring the evolution of human communication.

aphetic relate terms

• apheresis

  Etymology and Meaning The word apheresis is derived from the Greek words apo meaning

• heresy

  Etymology The word heresy is derived from the Old French hérésie which in turn co

• prentice

  Etymology The name Prentice originates from Old French prentice meaning apprentice

• apprentice

  Etymology Apprentice derives from the Old French word aprentiz meaning one who lear

• reredos

  Etymology and Origin of Reredos The term reredos has Latin origins Re Meaning b

• restive

  Etymology The word restive comes from the Latin word restare meaning to stand still

• squire

  Etymology The word squire comes from the Old French word escuier which in turn deri

• esquire

  Etymology The word esquire is derived from the Old Norman French word escuier meani

• adventure

  Etymology Late Middle English from Old French aventure from Latin adventūra literal

• purpose

  Etymology Latin propositum n from the verb proponere to put forth propose Pro

• habitat

  Etymology habitat n mid 17th century from French habitat from Latin habitare dwel

• bath

  Etymology and Meaning of Bath The word bath has its origins in the Old English word

• accident

  Etymology The word accident comes from the Middle English word accident which in tu

• strike

  Etymology The word strike comes from the Middle English word striken which is derive