Etymology and Meaning
The word "intimation" originates from the Latin word "intimare," which means "to make known" or "to suggest." It is derived from the prefix "in-" (meaning "in") and the verb "timao" (meaning "to fear" or "to respect").
In English, the term "intimation" has come to mean:
Origin
The Latin word "intimare" was first used in the 1st century BCE by the Roman philosopher Cicero. It was commonly employed in legal contexts to refer to the act of notifying or informing someone of something. Over time, the word was extended to encompass a broader range of meanings, including hints, suggestions, and forewarnings.
Historical Usage
The use of "intimation" to denote a hint or suggestion can be traced back to the early 17th century. In his play "The Tempest," William Shakespeare wrote:
"This intimation into my mind / Brings me to think of the Queen's sons."
In the 19th century, the word acquired its current sense of "forewarning" or "prior notice." It is often used in formal or legal contexts to refer to an official communication that provides information about an upcoming event or action.
Etymology and Meaning The word intimation originates from the Latin word intimare wh
Etymology Middle English enke ink from Old French encre ancre Old French ancre f
Etymology Middle English glimeren from Old English glimm e rian of Germanic origin
Etymology Old English hynt Middle English hent Meaning A suggestion or clue that
Etymology Old French regretter Late Latin regretari meaning to murmur complain Po
Etymology The word suggestion comes from the Latin word suggestio which means a whi
Etymology Old High German beraht bright famous Proto Germanic berhtaz bright
Etymology The word breath comes from the Old English word bræþ which is derived fr
Etymology Latin prōpositio prō forth positio placing situation Meaning
Etymology The word proffer comes from the Middle English profren which is itself de
Etymology The word thin is derived from the Old English word þynne which is itself
