evil etymology

Etymology

The word "evil" is derived from the Old English word "yfel," which in turn is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*ubilą." Cognates of "evil" can be found in other Germanic languages, such as German "übel" and Dutch "euvel."

Meaning and Origin

In its earliest usage, "evil" referred to something that is harmful or damaging. This sense of the word is still common today, as in the phrase "evil deeds." However, over time the meaning of "evil" has expanded to include a broader sense of moral wrongness or wickedness. This sense of the word is often used in religious contexts, where it refers to actions that are considered to be sinful or immoral.

The origin of the concept of evil is a complex and debated topic. Some philosophers and theologians believe that evil is an inherent part of the universe, while others believe that it is a product of human choice. There are many different theories about the nature of evil, and no single theory has been universally accepted.

evil relate terms

  • evil

    Etymology The word evil is derived from the Old English word yfel which in turn is d

  • worse

    Etymology Old English wyrsa valueless evil cursed Proto Germanic wirsīza Proto In

  • worst

    Worst Etymology Nice Meaning Pleasant agreeable Origin Probably from the Latin wor

  • evildoer

    Etymology Evil from Middle English evel from Old English yfel meaning evil

  • evil

    Etymology The word evil is derived from the Old English word yfel which in turn is d

  • doer

    Etymology Middle English dōer from do er agent suffix Old English dōn to do

  • evil

    Etymology The word evil is derived from the Old English word yfel which in turn is d

  • good

    Etymology is the study of the origin and history of words It traces the development of wo

  • good

    Etymology is the study of the origin and history of words It traces the development of wo

  • iniquity

    Etymology The word iniquity comes from the Late Latin word iniquitas which in turn

  • retribution

    Etymology Latin retributio retributionis retribution punishment retribuere to

  • naughty

    Etymology The word naughty is derived from the Middle English word naughte meaning

  • felony

    Etymology Middle English felonie from Old French felonie Old French from Latin fell

  • baleful

    Etymology The word baleful is derived from the Old English word balewe which means

  • malignancy

    Etymology Latin malignant harmful malevolent French maligne Middle English mali

  • mischief

    Etymology The word mischief comes from the Old French word meschief which is derived

  • malignity

    Etymology Latin malignus meaning malicious harmful evil Proto Indo European