supererogate etymology

Etymology:

• Late Latin supererogat, from Latin super- ("above, beyond") + erogātus, past participle of erogāre ("to pay out, expend")

Meaning:

To do or give more than is required or expected; to perform an act of extraordinary or surpassing merit.

Origin:

The term "supererogate" originated in the 16th century from the Latin phrase "opera supererogationis," which referred to acts of piety or charity that were not strictly required by the commandments. These acts were believed to earn the performer a surplus of merit that could be applied to the benefit of others.

The concept of supererogation has been a subject of debate in Christian theology, with some denominations believing that such acts are meritorious and others rejecting the idea that any human action can truly merit God's favor.

In secular usage, the term "supererogate" has come to mean any act that goes beyond the call of duty or is done without any expectation of reward.

supererogate relate terms

• supererogation

  Etymology The word supererogation is derived from the Latin phrase super erogare whi