duty etymology

Etymology

• Middle English: duete, duetee, from Anglo-Norman French duete, dutee, from Latin dēbita (neuter plural of dēbitus), the past participle of dēbēre "to owe".

Meaning and Origin

The word "duty" has evolved in meaning and usage over time. Originally, it referred to a legal or moral obligation that one person owed to another. This sense of the word is still present in terms like "duty of care" and "fiduciary duty."

Over time, the meaning of "duty" broadened to include any obligation or responsibility that a person feels compelled to fulfill. This can include obligations to oneself, to one's family and friends, or to society at large.

The concept of duty has been a central theme in philosophy, ethics, and religion throughout history. Philosophers have debated the nature and origin of duty, and whether it is based on self-interest, empathy, or some higher moral principle.

In everyday usage, "duty" is often used to refer to tasks or obligations that are seen as unpleasant or burdensome. However, the word can also be used in a more positive sense, to refer to actions that are seen as noble or virtuous.

Examples of Usage

• "It is my duty to protect my family."
• "I have a duty to vote in every election."
• "It is my duty to treat others with respect."
• "I have a duty to myself to live a healthy and fulfilling life."
• "It is our duty as citizens to work together to build a better society."

duty relate terms

• dutiable

  Etymology Dutiable comes from the word duty which itself comes from the Old French deu

• duty

  Etymology Middle English duete duetee from Anglo Norman French duete dutee from Lat

• dutiful

  Etymology The word dutiful comes from the late Middle English word duteful c 1400

• duty

  Etymology Middle English duete duetee from Anglo Norman French duete dutee from Lat

• tariff

  Etymology The word tariff originated in the Arabic word ta rif meaning declaration

• obligation

  Etymology The word obligation comes from the Latin word obligare which means to bin

• endeavor

  Etymology Old French endevoir to make an effort strive Late Latin indevotare ind

• official

  Etymology Official is derived from the Middle French word official which in turn come

• task

  Etymology The word task derives from Middle English where it was spelled taske or t

• call

  Etymology Call derives from the Proto Germanic root kallan meaning to call proc

• official

  Etymology Official is derived from the Middle French word official which in turn come

• ochre

  Etymology The word ochre comes from the Greek word ὠχρά ōkhra meaning of a

• chore

  Etymology The word chore comes from the Middle English word chore which in turn come

• office

  Etymology The word office is derived from the Latin word officium which originally m