grave etymology

Etymology

The word "grave" has its roots in the Latin word "gravis," which means "heavy" or "serious." It has been borrowed into English from French and has been in use since the 14th century.

Meaning and Origin

In its primary sense, "grave" refers to something that is heavy or oppressive. It can also describe something that is serious or important, or that causes sadness or concern.

The word "grave" has been used in a variety of contexts throughout history. In the Roman Empire, it was used to describe the serious crimes that were punishable by death. In the Middle Ages, it was used to describe the solemn rituals associated with death and burial. In the 18th and 19th centuries, it was used to describe the serious illnesses that often led to death.

Today, the word "grave" is used in a wide range of contexts. It can be used to describe something that is physically heavy, such as a boulder, or something that is emotionally heavy, such as a loss. It can also be used to describe something that is serious or important, such as a debate or a decision.

Synonyms

  • solemn
  • serious
  • somber
  • weighty
  • ponderous
  • oppressive

grave relate terms

  • engrave

    Etymology The word engrave comes from the Old French word engraver which in turn co

  • grave

    Etymology The word grave has its roots in the Latin word gravis which means heavy

  • engraving

    Etymology From Middle English engraven from Old French engraver from Late Latin ingra

  • graven

    Etymology Comes from the Old English word grafan meaning to dig or to cut Mea

  • grave

    Etymology The word grave has its roots in the Latin word gravis which means heavy

  • graft

    Etymology Middle English grafted from Old French graffer from Latin graphium mean

  • groove

    Etymology The word groove derives from the Old English word grōf meaning a ditch

  • lair

    Etymology and Origin of Lair The word lair has its origins in Middle English specifi

  • serious

    Etymology Serious comes from the Latin word serius meaning grave or earnest The

  • barrow

    Etymology Middle English barewe from Old English beorg bearuwe a tumulus a mound

  • Scratch

    Etymology The word scratch comes from the Middle English word scratten which in turn

  • crave

    Etymology The word crave comes from the Old English word cravian which means to ask

  • carve

    Etymology Middle English carven to cut wood or stone Old English ceorfan to cu