Etymology
The word "hark" has Old English origins and has been in use since around the 13th century. It is derived from the Old English word "herian," which means "to listen" or "to pay attention." The word "herian" is thought to be derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "*ḱer-," which also means "to listen."
Meaning and Origin
"Hark" is an interjection used to draw attention to something or to urge someone to listen. It is often used in conjunction with the imperative verb "listen" or "hear."
In its original usage, "hark" was used to call attention to important news or announcements. It was also used to alert people to danger or to get their attention for specific instructions. Over time, the word "hark" has come to be used more generally to simply draw attention to something.
Usage in Literature
"Hark" has been used in literature for centuries to create a sense of suspense or urgency. It is often used in scenes where a character is trying to get the attention of another character or when something unexpected or dangerous is about to happen.
For example, in the opening lines of Samuel Taylor Coleridge's famous poem "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner," the mariner uses the word "hark" to get the attention of the wedding guest:
Listen, stranger! Hark, a rhyme!
Modern Usage
"Hark" is still used today, although it is somewhat less common than it once was. It is often used in a humorous or ironic way to draw attention to something that is not particularly important. It can also be used to create a sense of urgency or suspense, as it did in its original usage.
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