plumb etymology

Etymology

The word "plumb" has two distinct etymologies:

• Latin: From the Latin word "plumbum," meaning "lead." The term was originally used to describe the weight used in a plumb line.
• Norse: From the Old Norse word "bloma," meaning "log" or "block." This term was used to refer to a piece of wood coated with lead used to measure depth.

Meaning

1. Vertical: * Perpendicular to the horizon; straight up and down. * Exactly upright or in line with the force of gravity.

2. Depth Measurement: * The depth of a liquid or other substance. * To measure the depth of something, typically using a plumb line or depth gauge.

3. Plumbing: * To install or repair pipes, fixtures, and other components of a water system.

Origin

1. Latin Origin:

• The Latin word "plumbum" is cognate with the Greek word "molybdos," meaning "lead."
• The ancient Romans used lead for various purposes, including making weights, pipes, and coins.

2. Norse Origin:

• The Old Norse word "bloma" is related to the English word "block."
• Vikings used blocks of wood to measure the depth of water when navigating. By attaching a lead weight to the block, they could measure the depth more accurately.

Historical Usage

The term "plumb" has been used in various contexts throughout history:

• In ancient Greece, "plumb line" was used to refer to a weight suspended from a string, used to determine verticality.
• In medieval England, "plummet" (a small lead weight) was used to measure the depth of water.
• In modern times, "plumbing" refers to the trade of installing and repairing water systems.

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