a

A < latin alpha < ancient greek άλφα / alpha < phoenician aleph (= ox) < semitic eleph (= ox) < (?) egyptian hieroglyph (of inverse A) as an ox’s head with horns.

Aaron < latin Aaron < ancient greek Ααρών | Aaron < hebrew Aharon < (?) egyptian origin.

abandon < middle english abandon < old french abandonner (= surrender, release) < à bandon (= at will, at discretion) < à ( < latin ad (= to)) + bandon (= power, jurisdiction) (< latin bannum (= proclamation) < proto-germanic *bannan- (= proclaim, summon)).

abbey < anglo-french abbeie < latin abbatia < abbas < ancient greek αββάς | abhbhas < aramaic abba (= the / my father) < abh (= father).

abbreviate < latin abbreviatus, past participle of abbrevio [inf. abbreviare] (= shorten) < (ad (= to) + brevio [inf. breviare] (= shorten).

abduction < latin abductio [gen. abductionis] (= ravishing, robbing) < abduco [inf. abducere] (= take away, arrest) < ab (= off, away) + duco [inf. ducere] (= to lead).

Abigail < hebrew Abhigayil (= [my] father is rejoicing) < abh (= father) + gil (= rejoice).

ability < middle english ability < old french ableté (= ability) < latin habilitas [gen. habilitatis] < habilis (= easy to manage).

able < old french (h)able (= capable) < latin habilis < habeo [inf. habere] (= hold, have).

aboard < middle english aboard < old french à bord < à (= on) ( < latin ad (= to)) + bord (= board) (< frankish *bord (= plank) < proto-germanic *burdam (= board, plank).

Aborigine < latin aborigines (= the first inhabitants) / ab origine (= from the beginning) < ab (= from) + origo [gen. originis] (= rise, birth) (< orior [inf. oriri] (= arise, be born)).

abort < latin abortus, past participle of aborior [inf. aborori] (= fail, disappear) < ab (= off) + orior [inf. oriri] (= arise, be born).

above < middle english above(n) < old english abufan / onbufan (= in a higher place) < a- / on + bufan (= over) (< be (= by) + ufan (= high)).

Abraham < latin Abraam < ancient greek Αβραάμ | Abhraam < hebrew Abraham (= father of a multitude) < abh (= father) + *raham (= multitude) < [previous name] Abram (= high father) < abh + ram (= high).

absent < old french absent < latin absens [gen. absentis], present participle of absum [inf. abesse] (= be away from) < ab (= off) + sum [inf. esse] (= I am).

absolute < latin absolutus, past participle of absolveo [inf. absolvere] (= to set free) < ab (= off) + solveo [inf. solvere] (= to loosen).

absorb < middle english absorb < old french absorber / assorbir < latin absorbeo [inf. absorbere] (= swallow up) < ab (= off, away) + sorbeo [inf. sorbere] (= suck in).

abstract < middle english abstract < latin abstractus, past participle of abstraho [inf. abstrahere] (= drag away, pull away) < ab (= off, away) + traho [inf. trahere] (= to draw).

abundant < middle english abundant < old french abundant < latin abundans [gen. abundantis], present participle of abundo [inf. abundare] (= overflow) < latin ab (= off, away) + undo [inf. undare] (= rise in a wave) (< unda (= wave)).

abuse < old french abuser (= deceive, abuse) < vulgar latin *abuso [inf. abusare] < latin abusus, past participle of abutor [inf. abuti] (= abuse) < ab (= off) + utor [inf. uti] (= use).

abyss < late latin abyssus < ancient greek άβυσσος | abhyssos (= bottomless) < α- | a- (= without) + βυσσός | bhyssos (= bottom).

AC < Air Conditioner.

A.C. < Alternating Current.

academy < french Académie < latin Academia < ancient greek Ακαδημία, the school of philosopher Plato < Ακαδημεία | Akadhēmoea, a grove in Athens of hero Ακάδημος | Akadhēmos.

accelerate < latin acceleratus, past participle of accelero [inf. accelerare] (= hasten, quicken) < ad (= to) + celero [inf. celerare] (= hasten) (< celer (= quick)).

accent < old french acent < latin accentus (= song added to speech) < ad (= to) + cantus, past participle of canto [inf. cantere] (= sing).

accept < old french accepter < latin accepto [inf. acceptare] (= receive) < accipio [inf. accipere] (= receive) < ad (= to) + capio [inf. capere] (= take, hold).

access < old french acces (= attack) < latin accessus < accedo [inf. accedere] (= approach) < ad (= to) + cedo [inf. cedere] (= go, move).

accessory < late latin accessorius < latin accessor < accedo [inf. accedere] (= approach) < ad (= to) + cedo [inf. cedere] (= go, move).

accident < old french accident < latin accidens [gen. accidentis] (= occurrence) < accido [inf. accidere] (= happen, fall upon) < ad (= to) + cado [inf. cadere] (= to fall).

acclaim < middle english acclaim < latin acclamo [inf. acclamare] (= cry out at) < ad (= to) + clamo [inf. clamare] (= cry out).

accomplish < old french acomplir (= to complete) < vulgar latin *accompleo [inf. accomplere] < latin ad (= to) + compleo [inf. complere] (< cum (= with) + pleo [inf. plere] (= to fill)).

accord < old french acorder (= agree) < vulgar latin *accordο [inf. accordare] < latin ad (= to) + cor [gen. cordis] (= heart).

accordion < german Akkordion < Akkord (= concord of sounds) < old french acorder (= agree) < vulgar latin *accordo [inf. accordare] < latin ad (= to) + cor [gen. cordis] (= heart).

accolade < french accolade (= embrace, kiss) < provençal acolada / italian accollata < vulgar latin *accollo [inf. accolare] (= embrace around the neck) < latin ad (= to) + collum (= neck).

accommodate < latin accomodatus, past participle of accomodo [inf. accomodare] (= make fit, adapt) < ad (= to) + commodo [inf. commodore] (= make fit) (< commodus (= proper, fit) < com (= with, together) + modus (= measure, manner)).

accompany < middle english accompany < old french acompaignier (= take as a companion) < à (< ad (= to)) + compaignier (< compagnon (= friend, partner) < late latin companio [gen. companionis] (= bread fellow, messmate) < latin com (= with, together) + panis (= bread)).

accost < middle french accoster (= come alongside) < late latin accosto [inf. accostare] (= come up to the side) < latin ad (= to) + costa (= side).

account < old french aconter (= enumerate) < a (< latin ad (= to)) + conter (= count) (< latin computo [inf. computare] (= count) < com (= with) + puto [inf. putare] (= prune, reckon)).

accrue < middle english accrew < old french acreue, female past participle of acreistre (= to increase) < latin accresco [inf. accrescere] (= increase, become greater) < ad (= to) + cresco [inf. crescere] (= grow).

accumulate < latin accumulatus, past participle of accumulo [inf. accumulare] (= heap up to) < ad (= to) + cumulo [inf. cumulare] (= heap up) (< cumulus (= a heap)).

accurate < latin accuratus, past participle of accuro [inf. accurare] < adcuro [inf. adcurare] (= take care of) < ad (= to) + curo [inf. curare] (= take care of).

accuse < old french acuser < latin accuso [inf. accusare] (= make complaint against) < ad causa (= to the cause) < ad (= to) + causa (= cause).

ace < middle english ace < old french as (= one at dice) < latin as [gen. assis] (= unit, one) < assarius [unit for measuring, weight, coins] < (?) etruscan origin.

ache < old english acan (= suffer continued pain) < proto-germanic *akanan.

achieve < old french achever (= to finish) < vulgar latin *accapο [inf. accapare] < latin ad caput [venire] (= [come] to the top) < ad (= to) + caput (= head).

acid < french acide < latin acidus (= sour, sharp) < aceo [inf. acere] (= be sharp).

acknowledge < middle english acknowledge < a blend of 1. aknow (= admit knowledge) (< old english oncnawan (= understand) < on + cnawan (= recognize)) + 2. knowlechen (= acknowledge) (< cnawlece (= honor, worship) < proto-germanic *knew- (= know) + (?) -lock (= action, process)).

acoustic < french acoustique < ancient greek ακουστικός | akoustikos (= pertaining to hearing) < ακουστός | akoustos (= audible) < ακούω | akouō (= hear).

acquaint < middle english acquaint < old french acointer (= make known) < vulgar latin *accognito [inf. accognitare] (= make known) < latin accognitus, past participle of accognosco [inf. accognoscere] (= know well) < adcognosco [inf. adcognoscere] < ad (= to) + cognosco [inf. cognoscere] (= come to know) (< com (= with, together) + gnosco [inf. gnoscere] (= know)).

acquire < old french aquerre (= gain) < vulgar latin *acquaero [inf. acquaerere] < latin acquiro [inf. acquirere] (= accumulate) < ad (= to) + quaero [inf. quarere] (= seek).

acquit < middle english aquiten < old french a(c)quiter (= pay, settle a claim) < a- (< latin ad (= to)) + quite (= free, clear) (< medieval latin quit(t)us < latin quietus (= free)).

acre < old english æcer (= tilled field) < proto-germanic *akraz (= field).

acrobat < french acrobate < ancient greek ακροβάτης | akrobhatēs (= rope dancer) < άκρος | akros (= topmost) + -βάτης | -bhatēs (= walker) (< βαίνω | bhaenō (= go, step)).

acronym < ancient greek άκρος | akros (= topmost) + όνυμα | onyma (= name).

acropolis < ancient greek akropolis (= citadel) < άκρος | akros (= topmost) + polis (= city).

across < middle english o cros < a-croiz < acros < anglo-french an cros (= on cross) < a- (= on, in) + cross (< old english cros < latin crux [gen. crucis] (= cross)).

acrylic < latin acer (= sharp) + oleo [inf. olere] (= smell) + [suffix] -ic.

act < latin actus < ago [inf. agere] (= drive, lead, act).

actor < middle english actor < latin actor (= agent, theatrical player) < ago [inf. agere] (= drive, lead, act).

acute < middle english acute < latin acutus, past participle of acuo [inf. acuere] (= to sharpen).

A.D. < medieval latin Anno Domini [nostri] (= in the Year of [our] Lord) < latin anno, ablative of annus (= year) + domini, genitive of dominus (= master, lord) (< domus (= house)).

Adam < hebrew adam (= man) < adamah (= ground).

adamant < old english aðamans < latin adamas [gen. adamantis] < ancient greek αδάμας | adhamas [gen. αδάμαντος | adhamantos] (= untamed) < α- | a- (= without) + δάμνημι | dhamnymi (= conquer, tame).

adapt < old french adapter < latin adapto [inf. adaptare] (= adjust) < ad (= to) + apto [inf. aptare] (= join).

add < latin addo [inf. addere] (= add, join) < ad (= to) + do [inf. dare] (= give).

addendum < latin addendum (= that which is to be added), neuter gerundive of addo [inf. addere] (= add to, join) < ad (= to) + do [inf. dare] (= give).

addict < latin addictus, past participle of addico [inf. addicere] (= deliver, award) < ad (= to) + dico [inf. dicere] (= say).

address < old french adrecier < vulgar latin *addirectio [inf. addirectiare] (= make straight) < ad (= to) + *directio [inf. directiare] (= make straight) (< latin directus, past participle of dirigo [inf. dirigere] (= set straight) < dis- (= apart) + rego [inf. regere] (= to direct, to guide).

Adelaide < french Adélaide [cf. old high german Adalhaid < adal (= noble family) (< proto-germanic *athala-) + heit (= state, rank)].

adept < latin adeptus, past participle of adipiscor [inf. adipisci] (= attain to, arrive at) < ad (= to) + apiscor [inf. apisci] (= grasp, attain).

adequate < latin adaequatus, past participle of adaequo [inf. adaequare] (= make equal to) < ad (= to) + aequo [inf. aequare] (= make level) (< aequus (= equal)).

adhere < middle french adhérer (= to stick, adhere) < aderer < latin adhaero [inf. adhaerare] (= to stick to) < ad (= to) + haero [inf. haerere] (= to stick).

ad hoc < latin ad hoc (= to this, for this) < ad (= to) + hoc, neuter of hic (= this).

ad infinitum < latin ad infinitum (= to infinity) < ad (= to) + infinitum, neuter of infinitus (= endless) < in- (= not) + finitus (= definite) (< finis (= end)).

adjective < middle english adjective < old french adjectif < latin adjectivus, past participle of adjicio [inf. adjicere] (= throw to, add to) < ad (= to) + jacio [inf. jacere] (= to throw).

adjourn < middle english ajournen < old french ajorner (= meet) < à jorn (= to [another] day) < à (< latin ad (= to)) + journ (= day) (< latin diurnus (= daily) < dies (= day)).

adjudge < middle english ajuge < old french ajugier (= to judge) < latin adjudico [inf. adjudicare] (= award as a judge) < ad (= to) + judico [inf. judicare] (= to judge) (< judex [gen. judicis] (= a judge) < jus [gen. juris] (= law) + dico [inf. dicere] (= say)).

adjust < middle english ajusten < old french ajuster / ajoster (= add, calibrate, regulate) < late latin adjuxto [inf. adjuxtare] (= bring near) < latin ad (= to) + juxta (= close, next).

administer < middle english a(d)ministren (= to manage as a steward) < old french aministrer (= to help) < latin administro [inf. administrare] (= to help) < ad (= to) + ministro [inf. ministrare] (= to serve) (< minister (= servant, priest’s assistant) < minus (= less)).

admire < old french admirer (= look upon) < latin admiror [inf. admirari] (= regard with wonder) < ad (= to) + miror [inf. mirari] (= wonder).

admit < middle english admit < latin admitto [inf. admittere] (= admit, allow to enter) < ad (= to) + mitto [inf. mittere] (= send).

adobe < 1. spanish adobe (= unburnt brick dried in the sun) (< (?) arabic al-tob (= the brick) < coptic tube (= brick)) or 2. spanish adobar (= daub, plaster).

adolescent < middle english adolescent < middle french adolescent < latin adolescens [gen. adolescentis], present participle of adolesco [inf. adolescere] (= grow up) < ad (= to) + alesco [inf. alescere] (= be nourished).

adopt < middle french adopter < latin adopto [inf. adoptare] (= select, adopt) < ad (= to) + opto [inf. optare] (= choose, wish).

adore < middle english aouren (= worship) < old french aorer (= adore, worship) < latin adoro [inf. adorare] (= beseech, ask in prayer) < ad (= to) + oro [inf. orare] (= speak, pray).

adrenaline < modern latin adrenal (= of the kidneys) (< latin ad (= to) + renalis (= of the kidneys) < renes (= kidneys)) + [suffix] -ine.

adroit < french adroit < à droit (= according to right) < old french à (= to) + droit (= right) (< medieval latin directum / drictum (= right, law) < latin directus, past participle of dirigo [inf. dirigere] (= set straight) < dis- (= apart) + rego [inf. regere] (= to direct, keep straight)).

adult < latin adultus, past participle of adolesco [inf. adolescere] (= grow up) < ad (= to) + alesco [inf. alescere] (= be nourished).

advance < middle english avauncen (= improve) < old french avanci(e)r (= go forward) < vulgar latin *abanteo < late latin abante < ab (= from) + ante (= before).

adventure < middle english aventure < old french aventure (= chance, event) < latin adventura, female future participle of advenio [inf. advenire] (= come to) < ad (= to) + venio [inf. venire] (= come).

adverb < middle english adverb < late latin adverbium (= adverb) < ad (= to) + verbum (= verb, word).

adverse < middle english adverse < old french advers < avers (= contrary, foreign) < latin adversus, past participle of adverto [inf. advertere] (= to turn toward) < ad (= to) + verto [inf. vertere] (= to turn).

advertise < old french advertir (= call attention) < latin adverto [inf. advertere] (= give heed) < ad (= to) + verto [inf. vertere] (= turn).

advice < middle english auys (= opinion) < old french avis (= opinion, view) < 1. [ço m’est] à vis (= it seems to me) or 2. vulgar latin *[mi] est visum (= it is in my view) < latin est (= is) + visum, neuter past participle of video [inf. videre] (= see).

aerial < latin aerius (= airy) < ancient greek αέριος | a-erios (= airy) < αήρ | aēr (= air).

aerobic < french aérobie < ancient greek αήρ | aēr [gen. αέρος | a-eros] (= air) + βίος | bhios (= life).

aeroplane < french aéroplane < ancient greek αήρ | aēr [gen. αέρος | a-eros] (= air) + french planer (= soar) (< latin planus (= level).

aesthetic < german Ästhetisch / french esthétique < ancient greek αισθητικός | aesthētikos (= perceptible) < αισθάνομαι | aesthanomae (= feel).

affair < anglo-french afere / old french afaire (= business, event) < à faire (= to do) < latin ad (= to) + facio [inf. facere] (= do, make).

affect < latin affectus (= disposition, mood) < affectus, past participle of afficio [inf. afficere] (= treat, manage) < ad (= to) + facio [inf. facere] (= do, make).

affinity < middle english affinity < old french afinite (= relationship, neighborhood) < latin affinitas (= relationship, neighborhood) < affinis (= adjoining, kin by marriage) < ad (= to) + finis (= border).

affirm < middle english affirmen < affermen < old french afermer (= confirm, strengthen) < latin affirmo [inf. affirmare] (= make steady, strengthen) < ad (= to) + firmo [inf. firmare] (= make firm, strengthen) (< firmus (= strong)).

afflict < middle english afflict < old french aflicter < latin afflicto [inf. afflictare] (= to damage) (= overthrow) < ad (= to) + fligo [inf. fligere] (= to strike).

affluent < middle english affluent < old french afluent < latin affluens [gen. affluentis], present participle of affluo [inf. affluere] (= flow toward) < ad (= to) + fluo [inf. fluere] (= to flow).

afford < middle english aforth < old english geforðian (= put forth, carry out) < forðian (= further) < forð (= forward).

afraid < middle english affray (= frighten) < anglo-french afrayer < old french effrei (= fright) < esfreer (= worry) < vulgar latin *exfrido [inf. exfridare] < latin ex (= out of) + frankish *frithu (= peace) (< proto-germanic *frithuz (= peace, consideration)).

Africa < latin Africa [terra] (= African [land], Libya, the province of Africa, the continent Africa), female of Africus (= of Africa) < Afer [gen. Afris] (= an African).

after < old english æfter (= behind, later in time) < of (= off) + [suffix] -ter.

aftermath < after + -math (< old english mæð (= cutting of grass)).

again < old english agan < ongean (= toward, against) < on + -gegn (= against, toward) (< german *gagina).

age < old french aage (= age, life) < vulgar latin *aetaticum < latin aetas [gen. aetatis] (= age, lifetime) < aevum (= lifetime, eternity).

agenda < latin agenda, neuter plural gerundive of ago [inf. agere] (= drive, lead, act).

agent < latin agens [gen. agentis], present participle of ago [inf. agere] (= drive, lead, act).

aggravate < latin aggravatus, past participle of aggravo [inf. aggravare] (= add to the weight of) < ad (= to) + gravo [inf. gravare] (= weigh down) (< gravis (= heavy)).

aggregate < middle english aggregate < latin aggregatus, past participle of aggrego [inf. aggregare] (= join, bring together) < ad (= to) + grego [inf. gregare] (= gather) (< grex [gen. gregis] (= flock)).

aggressive < latin aggressus, past participle of aggredior [inf. aggredi] (= to approach, attack) < ad (= to) + gradior [inf. gradi] (= to step) (< gradus (= a step)).

agitate < latin agitatus, past participle of agito [inf. agitare] (= put in constant motion) < ago [inf. agere] (= drive, lead, act).

ago < older agon (= departed, passed away), past participle of ago(n) (= proceed, go forth) < old english agan < a- (= away) + gan (= go).

agony < middle english agony < old french agonie < late latin agonia < ancient greek αγωνία | aghōnia (= agony, anguish) < αγών | aghōn (= assembly, contest, trial) < άγω | agō (= drive, lead).

agree < old french agreer (= satisfy) < a gré (= favorably) < a (< latin ad (= to)) + gre(t) (< latin gratus (= pleasing, agreeable)).

ahead < a- (= on, in) + head (< old english heafod (= top of the body) < proto-germanic *haubid).

aid < old french aide < aiudha (= aid, help) < latin adiuta, female past participle of adjuvo [inf. adjuvare] (= to give help to) < ad (= to) + juvo [inf. juvare] (= help, support).

ail < middle english ail < old english eglan (= to trouble, afflict) < proto-germanic *azljaz.

aim < old french aesmer (= value, count) < latin aestimo [inf. aestimare] (= appraise).

air < old french air < latin aer (= air) < ancient greek αήρ | aēr [gen. αέρος | a-eros] (= air, mist, haze).

airborne < air (< old french air < latin aer (= air) < ancient greek αήρ | aēr [gen. αέρος | a-eros] (= air)) + borne, past tense and participle of bear (< old english beran (= carry, bring, give birth to) < proto-germanic *beranan).

aisle < middle english ele (= lateral division of a church) < old french ele (= wing, side of a ship) < latin ala (= wing, armpit).

ajar < a jar < (?) scottish a char (= turned a little way) < on char (= on the turn) < a- (= on, in) + middle english char (= a turn) (< old english cier (= a turn)).

a.k.a. < [1935] also known as.

akin < a- (= on, in) + kin (< middle english kin < old english cynn (= family, sort, gender) < proto-germanic *kunja- (= family)).

Alan < old breton [Saint] Alan.

alarm < old french alarme < italian all’ arme (= to the arms!) < alle [< a (< latin ad (= to)) + le (< latin ille (= the))] + arme (< latin arma (= weapons)).

Alaska < russian Aljaskat < aleut alakshak (= big country, continent).

Albania < medieval latin Albania < medieval greek Αλβανία | Albhania < (?) 1. I.E. *alb (= hill) or 2. I.E. *albho- (= white).

albatross < (?) spanish / portuguese albatross < alcatraz (= pelican, cormorant) < (?) 1. arabic al-ghattas < al (= the) + ghattas (= sea eagle) or 2. portuguese alcatruz (= bucket of a water wheel) < arabic al-qadus < al (= the) + qadus (= machine for drawing water, jar) (< ancient greek κάδος | kadhos (= jar)) [(?) as a reference to the pelican's pouch].

Albert < german Albert < old high german Adalbert (= noble bright) < adal (= noble family) (< proto-germanic *athala-) + proto-germanic *berhta- (= bright).

album < latin album, neuter of albus (= white) [a white board for public notices].

Alcatraz < spanish / portuguese alcatraz (= pelican, cormorant) < (?) 1. arabic al-ghattas < al (= the) + ghattas (= sea eagle) or 2. portuguese alcatruz (= bucket of a water wheel) < arabic al-qadus < al (= the) + qadus (= machine for drawing water, jar) (< ancient greek κάδος | kadhos (= jar)) [(?) as a reference to the pelican’s pouch].

alchemy < middle english alchemy < old french alchimie < alquemie < medieval latin alchimia < arabic al-kimiya < al (= the) + kimiya (= chemistry) < ancient greek χημεία | khēmoea (= chemistry) < (?) a compound of Χημία | Khēmia (< egyptian Kmt (= Egypt) < kmm (= I am black [(= fertile) soil])) + ancient greek χυμός | khymos (= juice) (< χέω | kheō (= to pour, cast)).

alcohol < medieval latin alcohol (= powdered ore of antimony) < arabic al-kuhul (= the kohl) [a metallic powder for darken the eyelids] < al (= the) + kahala (= to stain, paint).

alderman < old english aldormann / ealdormonn (= ruler, chief) < aldor / ealder (= patriarch) < ald (= old) + mann / monn (= man).

alert < french alerte (= vigilant) < à l’ erte (= on the watch) < italian all’ erta (= to the height) < alle [< a (< latin ad (= to)) + le (< latin ille (= the))] + erta, female past participle of ergo [inf. ergere] (= raise up) (< latin erigo [inf. erigere] (= raise)).

Alfred < old english Ælfræd < ælf (= elf) + ræd (= counsel).

algebra < medieval latin algebra < arabic [al-mukhtasar fi hisab] al-jabr [wa al-muqabala] (= [the compendium on calculation by] restoring [and balancing]), title of mathematician Al-Khwarizmi’s book < al (= the) + jabr (= reunion of broken parts) (< jabara (= reunite)).

Algeria < arabic al-Jazair < al (= the) + jazair, plural of jezira (= island) [in reference to the islands next to this city].

algorithm < french algorithme [under mistaken connection with ancient greek αριθμός | arithmos (= number)] < old french algorisme (= the arabic numeral system) < medieval latin algorismus < arabic al-Khwarizmi, famous mathematician [cf. algebra].

alias < latin alias (= at another time or way) < alius (= other, different).

alibi < latin alibi (= elsewhere) < alius (= other, different).

Alice < old french Aliz < old high german Adalhaid < adal (= noble family) + heit (= state, rank).

alien < old french alien (= strange, foreign) < latin alienus (= foreign) < alius (= other, different).

alienate < latin alienatus, past participle of alieno [inf. alienare] (= estrange, set at variance) < alienus (= foreign) < alius (= other, another).

alike < middle english aliche < old english anlig (= similar, resembling) < an / on + like (< old english lic (= body) < lik, a shortening of y-lik < old english gelic (= similar)).

alimony < latin alimonia (= food, nourishment) < aleo [inf. alere] (= to nourish, support) + [suffix] -monia (= action, state, condition).

Alison < french Alison < Alice < old french Aliz < old high german Adalhaid (< adal (= noble family) + heit (= state, rank)).

alive < middle english alive < old english on life (= in living) < a- (= on, in) + lif (= life) (< proto-germanic *leiban).

alkali < middle english alkali < medieval latin alkali < arabic al-qaliy (= the ashes) < al (= the) + qala (= to roast in a pan).

all < old english eall (= every, entire) < proto-germanic *alnaz.

Allah < arabic Allah < al-Ilah < al (= the) + Ilah (= God).

allege < middle english allege < anglo-french aleger / old french eslegier (= to clear at law) < latin ex (= out of) + litigo [inf. litigare] (= bring suit).

allegory < middle english allegory < old french allegorie < latin allegoria < ancient greek αλληγορία | allēghoria (= figurative language) < άλλος | allos (= another) + αγορεύω | aghorevō (= speak in the assembly) (< αγορά | aghora (= public assembly)).

Allen < Alan < old breton [Saint] Alan.

allergy < german Allergie < ancient greek άλλος | allos (= another) + έργον | erghon (= work).

alley < middle english alley < old french alee (= path, way) < alee, female past participle of aler (= go) < (?) latin ambulo [inf. ambulare] (= walk).

alligator < (a)ligarto < spanish el lagarto [de Indias] (= the lizard [of Indies]) < el (= the) (< latin ille (= he, this)) + latin lacerta (= lizard).

allocate < medieval latin allocate, imperative plural of alloco [inf. allocare] < adloco [inf. adlocare] (= allocate) < ad (= to) + loco [inf. locare] (= to place) (< locus (= a place)).

allot < middle english al(l)ot < old french aloter (= divide by lots) < à (< latin ad (= to)) + loter (= lot) (< germanic origin).

allow < middle english allouen (= commend, praise) < anglo-french alouer < old french aloer (= to place, arrange) < latin alloco [inf. allocare] < adloco [inf. adlocare] (= allocate) < ad (= to) + loco [inf. locare] (= to place) (< locus (= a place)).

allude < middle french alluder < latin alludo [inf. alludere] < adludo [inf. adludere] (= to play, joke) < ad (= to) + ludo [inf. ludere] (= to play).

ally < middle english ally (= to join in marriage) < old french alier (= combine, unite) < aliier < latin alligo [inf. alligare] < adligo [inf. adligare] (= bind to) < ad (= to) + ligo [inf. ligare] (= to bind, tie the hands).

Alma Mater < latin Alma Mater (= nurturing mother) [a title given by Romans to certain goddesses] < alma, female of almus (= nurturing) < alo [inf. alere] (= nourish, support)) + mater (= mother).

almighty < old english ælmihtig (= all-powerful) < æl (< eall (= entire) < proto-germanic *alnaz) + mihtig (< mæhtig (= having strength) < proto-germanic *mahtiga-).

almond < old french almande < alemondle (= almond) < vulgar latin *amendla < *amandula < latin amygdala, plural of amygdalum < ancient greek αμυγδάλιον | amyghdhalion (= almond) < αμυγδάλη | amyghdhalē (= almond tree).

almost < old english eallmæst < all + most.

alone < old english all ana (= all by oneself) < all + an (= one).

along < old english andlang (= entire, continuous) < proto-germanic *andi-, *anda- (= against)) + lang (< old english lang (= long, tall) < proto-germanic *langa- (= long)).

aloud < middle english aloud < a- (= on, in) + loud (< old english hlud (= noisy) < proto-germanic *hludaz (= heard)).

alpha < latin alpha < ancient greek άλφα | alpha < phoenician aleph (= ox) < semitic eleph (= ox) < (?) egyptian hieroglyph (of inverse A) as an ox’s head with horns.

alphabet < late latin alphabetum < ancient greek αλφάβητος | alphabhētos < άλφα | alpha [see alpha] + βήτα | bhēta (< phoenician beth (= house)).

Alps < french Alpes < latin Alpes (= the Alps) < (?) 1. altus (= high) or 2. albus (= white) or 3. celtic source.

also < old english eallswa (= just as, so as) < eal swa < all + so.

altar < old english altar / alter < latin altare [plural altaria] (= altar).

alter (= to change) < old frenc halterer < medieval latin altero [inf. alterare] (= to change) < latin alter (= the other).

alternate < latin alternatus, past participle of alterno [inf. alternare] (= do one after the other) < alternus (= one after the other) < alter (= the other).

altitude < middle english altitude < latin altitudo (= height) < altus (= high).

altruism < french altruisme < old french altrui (= of the others) < latin alter [gen. altri] (= other).

aluminum < french alumina, alumine < latin alumen (= alum).

always < old english ealne weg (= all the time, perpetually) < all + way.

a.m. < an abbreviation of latin ante meridiem (= before noon) < ante (= before) + meridiem, accusative of meridies (= noon) (< medius (= middle) + dies (= day)).

am < old english eom (= to be) < proto-germanic *izm(i)- < I.E. *esmi- < *es- (= to be).

amalgam < middle english amalgam < old french amalgame < medieval latin amalgama (= alloy of mercury) < (?) 1. ancient greek μάλαγμα | malaghma (= softening substance) < μαλάσσω | malassō (= to soften) < μαλακός | malakos (= soft) or 2. arabic al-magham / al-madjma’a (= emollient poultice for sores) < al (= the) + ancient greek μάλαγμα | malagma.

Amanda < latin amanda (= pleasing), female gerundive of amo [inf. amare] (= to love).

amateur < french amateur (= lover) < latin amator (= lover, friend) < amatus, past participle of amo [inf. amare] (= to love).

amaze < middle english amased (= stunned, dazed, foolish) < old english amasod < [prefix] a- + *mæs (< a compound of amasod (= amazed) + amasian (= confuse)).

ambassador < old french ambassateor / embassator < latin ambactus (= servant, vassal) < celtic amb(i)actos (= messenger, servant).

amber < middle english ambre [grice] (= [gray] amber) < old french ambre [gris] (= [gray] amber) < arabic ‘anbar (= ambergris, morbid secretion).

ambient < latin ambiens [gen. ambientis], present participle of ambio [inf. ambire] (= go around) < ambi- (= around) + eo [inf. ire] (= go).

ambiguous < latin ambiguus (= having double meaning, doubtful) < ambigo [inf. ambigere] (= to wander, dispute about, contend) < ambi- (= around) + ago [inf. agere] (= drive, lead, act).

ambition < middle english ambition < old french ambicion < ambitio [gen. ambitionis] (= a going around, desire for honor) < ambeo [inf. ambire] (= go around) < ambi- (= around) + eo [inf. ire] (= go).

amble < middle english amble < old french ambler (= go steady) < latin ambulo [inf. ambulare] (= go about) < (?) ambi- (= around) + -ulare (< I.E. *el- (= go)).

ambulance < french ambulance < [hospital] ambulant (= walking [hospital]) < latin ambulans [gen. ambulantis], present participle of ambulo [inf. ambulare] (= go about) < (?) ambi- (= around) + -ulare (< I.E. *el- (= go)).

ambush < middle english embushen < old french embuschier (= to hide, lay an ambush) < en- (= in) + busch (= wood) (< frankish *busk (= bush, woods)).

Amelia < latin Amelia (= laborious) < germanic origin.

amen < late latin amen < ancient greek αμήν | amēn < hebrew amen (= truth) < semitic a-m-n (= to be trustworthy, confirm).

America < modern latin americanus < italian Amerigo [Vespucci], an Italian geographer [who claimed first to have discovered a new continent, not the India as Chr. Colombo believed, and call it New World] < (?) gothic Amalrich (= work-ruler).

ammonia < modern latin ammonia < [sal] ammoniac (= [salt] ammoniac) < ancient greek αμμωνιακόν [κόμμι] | ammōniakon [kommi] (= ammoniac [gum]) < Αμμωνία | Ammōnia, a place in Libya < Άμμων [Ζεύς] | Ammōn [Zeus] (= Ammon [Jupiter]), an egyptian-greek god [with a temple near this place] < egyptian Amun, a god of Egypt.

ammunition < middle french la munition < *l’ amunition < latin munitio [gen. munitionis] (= a fortifying) < munio [inf. munire] (= fortify) < moenia (= defensive walls).

amnesia < french amnésia < ancient greek αμνησία | amnēsia (= forgetfulness) < α- | a- (= without) + stem μνη- | mnē- of μνώμαι | mnōmae (= remember).

amnesty < french amnistie < latin amnestia < ancient greek αμνηστία | amnēstia (= forgetfulness) < άμνηστος | amnēstos (= forgetful) < α- | a- (= without) + μνήστις | mnēstis (= remembrance) (< stem μνη- | mnē- of μνώμαι | mnōmae (= remember)).

amok < malay amuk (= attacking furiously).

among < old english amang < old english onmang < ongemang (= among, during) < on gemang (= in the crowd) < on + gemengan (= mingle) < proto-germanic *mangjan (= knead together).

amoral < ancient greek a- | a- (= without) + english moral (< latin moralis (= proper behavior) < latin mos [gen. moris] (= disposition) [plural mores] (= manners, customs)).

amount < old french amonter (= rise, signify) < amont (= upward, uphill) < a mont (= to the mountain) < a (< latin ad (= to) + mont (< latin mons [gen. montis] (= mountain)).

amphibian < ancient greek αμφίβιος | amphibhios (= living a double life) < αμφί | amphi (= of both kinds) + βίος | bhios (= life).

amphitheatre < middle english amphitheater < latin amphitheatrum < ancient greek αμφιθέατρον | amphitheatron < αμφί | amphi (= on both sides) + θέατρον | theatron (= theater) (< θεώμαι | theōmae (= be seen, behold) < θέα | thea (= view)).

ample < middle english ample < old french ample (= large, wide) < latin amplus (= large, spacious) < proto-italic *amlo- (= seizable).

amplify < old french amplifier < latin amplifico [inf. amplificare] (= enlarge) < amplus (= large) + facio [inf. facere] (= make, do).

amputate < amputation < latin amputatus, past participle of amputo [inf. amputare] (= cut off, cut around) < ambi- (= around) + puto [inf. putare] (= to prune, cut).

Amsterdam < dutch Amstel, a river (< germanic ama (= current) + stelle (= place)) + [suffix] -dam [in place names].

amuse < old french amuser (= fool, tease, hoax) < a (< latin ad (= to)) + muser (= ponder, stare fixedly).

an(a)emia < french anaemia < ancient greek αναιμία | anaemia (= lack of blood) < άναιμος | anaemos (= bloodless) < α(ν)- | a(n)- (= without) + ‘αίμα | ^haema (= blood).

an(a)esthesia < ancient greek αναισθησία | anaesthēsia (= lack of sensation) < α(ν)- | a(n)- (= without) + αισθητός | aesthētos (= tangible) (< αισθάνομαι | aesthanomae (= feel)).

analogy < old french analogie < latin analogia < ancient greek αναλογία | analoghia (= proportion) < ανάλογος | analoghos (= proportional) < ανά | ana (= upon) + λόγος | loghos (= a speaking) (< λέγω | leghō (= speak)).

analysis < medieval latin analysis < ancient greek ανάλυσις | analysis (= loosening, solution) < αναλύω | analyō (= unloose, analyze) < ανά | ana (= up) + λύω | lyō (= unfasten).

anarchy < french anarchie < medieval latin anarchia < ancient greek αναρχία | anarkhia (= lack of a leader) < άναρχος | anarkhos (= rulerless) < α(ν)- | a(n)- (= without) + άρχω | arkhō (= to lead, rule).

anathema < latin anathema (= the curse of excommunication) < ancient greek ανάθεμα | anathema (= a thing accursed) < ανάθημα | anathēma (= a thing set up to the gods) < ανατίθημι | anatithēmi (= devote, dedicate) < ανά | ana (= up) + τίθημι | tithemi (= to put).

anatomy < old french anatomie < late latin anatomia < ancient greek ανατομή | anatome (= dissection) < ανατέμνω | anatemnō (= dissect) < ανά | ana (= up) + τέμνω | temnō (= to cut).

ancestor < middle english ancestre | antecessour < old french ancestre | ancessor (= ancestor, forefather) < late latin antecessor (= predecessor) < latin antecessus, past participle of antecedo [inf. antecedere] (= to precede) < ante (= before) + cedo [inf. cedere] (= go).

anchor < old english ancor < latin ancora (= an anchor) < ancient greek άγκυρα | aⁿgkyra (= anchor, hook).

ancient < older auncyen < old french ancien (= old, ancient) < vulgar latin *anteanus < latin ante (= before).

and < old english and / ond (= thereupon, next) < proto-germanic *unda < I.E. *en (= in).

Andalusia < spanish Andalusia < arabic al Andalus < al (= the) + Andalus (< (?) late latin *Vandalicia (= the country of Vandals) < latin Vandali (= Vandals), a germanic tribe [settled in southern Spain] < (?) proto-germanic *wandljaz (= wanderer)).

Andrew < old french Andreu < late latin Andreas < ancient greek Ανδρέας | Andhreas < ανήρ | anēr [gen. ανδρός | andhros] (= man).

android < modern latin androides < ancient greek ανήρ | anēr [gen. ανδρός | andhros] (= man, human) + είδος | oedhos (= form).

Andy < a shortening of Andrew (q.v.).

anemia < anaemia < french anaemia < ancient greek αναιμία | anaemia (= lack of blood) < άναιμος | anaemos (= bloodless) < α(ν)- | a(n)- (= without) + ‘αίμα | ^haema (= blood).

anesthesia < anaesthesia < ancient greek αναισθησία | anaesthēsia (= lack of sensation) < α(ν)- | a(n)- (= without) + αισθητός | aesthētos (= tangible) (< αισθάνομαι | aesthanomae (= feel)).

angel < old english engel / old french angele < late latin angelus < ancient greek άγγελος | aⁿggelos (= messenger).

anger < old norse angr (= distress, sorrow) < proto-germanic *angaz (= painful).

angle < old french angle < latin angulus (= angle, corner).

Angle < old english Angle < latin Angli < Angul, a region (today, Holstein) [so called for its shape like a hook or for their fishing with hooks] < latin angulus (= angle).

Angus < scottish Angus, related to irish Aonghus < celtic oen (= one) + old irish gus (= ability, strength).

animal < latin animal (= living being) < animalis (= animate, living) < anima (= breath, soul).

animate < latin animatus, past participle of animo [inf. animare] (= give breath to) < anima (= breath, soul).

Anna < latin Anna < ancient greek Άννα | Anna < hebrew Hannah (= grace).

annihilate < medieval latin annihilatus, past participle of annihilo [inf. annihilare] (= reduce to nothing) < latin adnihilo [inf. adnihilare] < ad (= to) + nihil (= nothing).

anniversary < medieval latin anniversarium < latin anniversarius (= returning annually) < annus [gen. anni] (= year) + versus, past participle of verto [inf. vetrere] (= turn).

announce < old french anoncier < latin annuntio [inf. annuntiare] < adnuntio [inf. adnuntiare] (= make known) < ad (= to) + nuntio [inf. nuntiare] (= report) (< nuntius (= messenger)).

annoy < middle english anoien / annuien (= harm, hurt) < anglo-french anuier / old french anuier (= be troublesome to) < late latin inodio [inf. iniodiare] (= make loathsome) < latin [est] in odio (= [it is] hateful) < in (= into) + odium (= hatred).

annual < old french annuel (= yearly) < medieval latin annualis (= yearly) < latin annalis < annus (= year).

Annuit Coeptis (words on the Great Seal of the U.S.A.) < latin [audacibus] annue coeptis (= [favor (my)] daring undertakings), a phrase from poet Virgil (with a change of annue to annuit) < annuo [inf. annuere] (= agree to) (< adnuo [inf. adnuere] < ad (= to) + nuo [inf. nuere] (= to nod)) + coeptus, past participle of coepio [inf. coepere] (= begin) (< cum (= with) + ap(i)o [inf. ap(i)ere] (= happen on).

anode < ancient greek άνοδος | anodhos (= way upward) < άνω | anō (= upward) + ‘οδός | ^hodhos (= way).

anonymous < late latin anonymus < ancient greek ανώνυμος | anōnymos (= without a name) < α(ν)- | a(n)- (= without) + όνυμα | onyma (= name).

anorexia < ancient greek ανορεξία | anorexia < α(ν)- | a(n)- (= without) + όρεξις | orexis (= appetite, desire) (< ορέγω | oregō (= to desire)).

another < middle english another < old english an (= one) + other (< old english oþer (= second, further) < proto-germanic *anthera-).

answer < old english andswaru (= response) < and- (= against) + -swaru (= affirmation) (< swerian (= swear)).

ant < middle english ampte < old english æmette (= ant) < germanic *emaitjon < a compound of *e- (= off, away) + *mai- (= cut).

antagonize < ancient greek ανταγωνίζομαι | antaghonizomae (= to struggle against) < αντί | anti (= against) + αγωνίζομαι | aghonizomae (= to contend for a prize) (< αγών | aghōn (= a contest, trial) < άγω | aghō (= drive, lead, act)).

Antarctica < antarctic < middle english antartyk < old french antartique < medieval latin antarcticus < ancient greek ανταρκτικός | antarktikos (< αντί | anti (= against, opposite) + αρκτικός | arktikos (= arctic, of the constellation Bear [= Ursa major]) < άρκτος | arktos (= bear)).

antenna < latin antenna / antemna (= sail yard).

anthem < old english antefn / ontemn (= a composition sung in alternate parts) < late latin antefana < ancient greek αντίφωνα | antiphōna, plural of αντίφωνον | antiphōnon (= verse response) < αντί | anti (= versus) + φωνή | phōnē (= voice).

anthology < latin anthologia < ancient greek ανθολογία | anthologhia (= flower collection, collection of poems) < άνθος | anthos (= flower) + -λογία | -loghia (= collection) (< -λόγος | -loghos (= collector) < λέγω | leghō (= collect, speak)).

anthropology < modern latin anthropologia < ancient greek άνθρωπος | anthrōpos (= human being) + -λογία | -loghia (= study) (< λόγος | loghos (= a speaking) < λέγω | leghō (= speak)).

antibiotic < french antibiotique < ancient greek αντί | anti (= against) + late latin bioticus (= of life) (< ancient greek βιοτικός | bhiotikos (= pertaining to life) < βίος | bhios (= life)).

anticipate < latin anticipatus, past participle of anticipo [inf. anticipare] (= take ahead of time) < anti / ante (= before) + capio [inf. capere] (= take, hold).

antidote < middle french antidot < latin antidotus | antidotum (= a remedy against poison) < ancient greek αντίδοτον [φάρμακον] | antidhoton [pharmakon] (= [drug] given as a remedy) < αντιδίδωμι | antidhidhōmi (= give instead of) < αντί | anti (= against) (see anti-) + δίδωμι | dhidhōmi (= give).

antique < middle french antique (= old) < late latin anticus < latin antiquus (= ancient, old) [cf. ante (= before)].

antiseptic < ancient greek αντί | anti (= against) + english septic (< latin septicus (= pertaining to putrefaction) < ancient greek σηπτικός | sēptikos (= characterized by putrefaction) < σήπω | sēpō (= make rotten).

Anthony < latin Antonius < (?) etruscan origin.

anxious < latin anxius (= solicitous, uneasy) < ango [inf. angere] (= to squeeze, cause distress).

any < old english ænig (= anyone) < proto-germanic *ainagas (= one, unique).

Apache < (?) american indian 1. apachewatche (= man of war) or 2.‘epache (= people).

apart < middle english apart < old french a part (= to the side) < a (< latin ad (= to)) + part (< latin pars [gen. partis] (= part, piece)).

apartheid < afrikaans apartheid (= separateness) < dutch apart (= separate) + [suffix] -heid ( = -hood).

ape < old english ape, female of apa (= monkey) < proto-germanic *apan.

aperitif < french apéritif < latin aperitivus < aperio [inf. aperire] (= to open).

apiary < latin apiarium (= beehive) < apiarius (= of bees) < apis (= bee).

apocalypse < middle english apocalypse < late latin apocalypsis (= revelation) < ancient greek αποκάλυψις | apokalypsis < αποκαλύπτω | apokalyptō (= to uncover) < από | apo (= off, from) + καλύπτω | kalyptō (= to cover).

apo koinu < ancient greek από κοινού | apo koenou (= in common) < από | apo (= from) + κοινός | koenos [gen. κοινού | koenou] (= common).

apology < late latin apologia < ancient greek απολογία | apologhia (= a speech in defense) < απολογούμαι | apologhoumae (= speak in one's defense) < απόλογος | apologhos (= speech, account) < από | apo (= from, off) + λόγος | loghos (= a speaking) (< λέγω | leghō (= speak)).

apostle < old english apostol < late latin apostolus < ancient greek απόστολος | apostolos (= messenger, envoy) < αποστέλλω | apostellō (= send forth) < από | apo (= off, from) + στέλλω | stellō (= send).

apparatus < latin apparatus (= equipment, preparation) < apparo [inf. apparare] < adparo [inf. adparare] (= make ready) < ad (= to) + paro [inf. parare] (= prepare).

apparel < middle english apparel < old french apareillier (= prepare) < vulgar latin *appariculo [inf. appariculare] < 1. latin apparo [inf. apparare] < adparo [inf. adparare] (= make ready) < ad (= to) + paro [inf. parare] (= prepare) or 2. vulgar latin *adpariculo [inf. adparticulare] (= put things together) < latin ad (= to) + particula (= little part) (< a diminutive of pars [gen. partis] (= piece, part)).

appeal < anglo-french apeler (= call upon, accuse) / old french apeler (= make an appeal) < latin appello [inf. apellare] (= accost, appeal to) < adpello [inf. adpellare] (= prepare) < ad (= to) + pello [inf. pellere] (= beat, push).

appear < old french aparoir / aperer (= come forth) < latin appareo [inf. apparere] < adpareo [inf. adparere] (= appear) < ad (= to) + pareo [inf. parere] (= come forth, be visible).

appease < middle english appease < anglo-french apeser / old french apaisier (= pacify) < a paisier (= bring to peace) < a (< latin ad (= to)) + pais (= peace) (< latin pax [gen. pacis] (= peace)).

append < old french apendre (= belong, hang) < latin appendo [inf. appendere] < adpendo [inf. adpendere] (= cause to hang, weigh out) < ad (= to) + pendo [inf. pendere] (= hang, weight).

appendix < latin appendix (= addition, continuation) < appendo [inf. appendere] < adpendo [inf. adpendere] (= cause to hang) < ad (= to) + pendo [inf. pendere] (= hang).

appetite < anglo-french appétit / old french apetit < latin appetitus (= appetite) < adpetitus, past participle of adpeto [inf. adpetere] (= desire) < ad (= to) + peto [inf. petere] (= go to, seek out).

applause < latin applausus, past participle of applaudo [inf. applaudere] (= approve by clapping hands) < latin adplaudo [inf. adplaudere] < ad (= to) + plaudo [inf. plaudere] (= to clap).

apple < old english æppel (= apple, fruit) < proto-germanic *ap(a)laz < I.E. *ab(e)l- (= apple).

apply < old french aploier (= apply, use, attach) < latin applico [inf. applicare] < adplico [inf. adplicare] (= join, connect) < ad (= to) + plico [inf. plicare] (= fold).

appoint < middle english appoint < anglo-french appointer / old french apointier (= make ready, arrange) < apointer (= duly, fitly) < à point (= to the point) < a- (< latin ad (= to)) + point (= point) (< latin punctum (= small hole)).

apportion < middle french apportionner < old french aporcioner (= share out) < a- (< latin ad (= to)) + portioner (= to divide into portions) (< portion (= share) < latin portio [gen. portionis] (= share, part) < *partio < pars [gen. partis] (= piece, part)).

appreciate < late latin appretiatus, past participle of appretio [inf. appretiare] < adpretio [inf. adpretiare] (= set a price to) < ad (= to) + pretium (= price).

apprehend < middle english apprehend < latin apprehendo [inf. apprehendere] (= take hold of) < ad (= to) + pre(he)ndo [inf. pre(he)ndere] (= to seize) (< prae- (= before) + -hendo [inf. -hendere] (= to seize)).

apprentice < middle english apprentice < old french aprentiz (= learning) < aprendre (= learn, teach) < latin apprehendo [inf. apprehendere] (= take hold of) < ad (= to) + pre(he)ndo [inf. pre(he)ndere] (= to seize) (< prae- (= before) + -hendo [inf. -hendere] (= to seize)).

approach < anglo-french approcher / old french aprochier < late latin appropio [inf. appropiare] < adpropio [inf. adpropiare] (= go nearer to) < latin ad (= to) + propio [inf. propiare] (= come nearer) (< prope (= near)).

appropriate < late latin appropriatus, past participle of approprio [inf. appropiare] < adproprio [inf. adpropiare] (= make one’s own) < latin ad (= to) + proprio [inf. propiare] (= take as one's own) < proprius (= one’s own).

approve < old french aprover < latin approbo [inf. aprobare] < adprobo [inf. adprobare] (= regard as good) < ad (= to) + probo [inf. probare] (= try, test) (< probus (= honest, genuine)).

approximate < late latin approximatus, past participle of approximo [inf. approximare] < adproximo [inf. adproximare] (= come near to) < latin ad (= to) + proximo [inf. proximare] (= come near) < proximus (= nearest), superlative of prope (= near).

apricot < french abricot < catalan abercoc < portuguese albricoque < arabic al-birquq < ancient greek βερίκοκ(κ)ον | bherikok(k)on < latin praecox [persicum] (= early-ripening [peach]) < praecox [gen. praecocis] < prae (= in front) + coquo [inf. coquere] (= to cook).

April < old french avril < latin Aprilis < 1. aperio [inf. aperire] (= open) or 2. (?) etruscan Apru < ancient greek Αφρώ | Aphrō < Αφροδίτη | Aphrodhitē, the goddess of love.

apt < middle english apt < old french ate (= suitable) < latin aptus (= fit, proper) < aptus, past participle of *apo [inf. apere] (= to join, tie to).

aptitude < middle english aptitude < late latin aptitudo (= fitness) < latin aptus (= fit, proper) < aptus, past participle of *apo [inf. apere] (= to join, tie to).

aqualung < latin aqua (= water) + lung (< old english [plural] lungen < proto-germanic *lunganjo- (= lung)).

aquarelle < french aquarelle < italian acquerella (= water-color), a diminutive of acqua (= water) < latin aqua (= water) < I.E. *akwa- (= water).

aquarium < latin aquarium (= water-carrier) < aquarius (= pertaining to water) < aqua (= water) < I.E. *akwa- (= water).

Aquarius < latin aquarius (= water carrier) < aqua (= water).

Arab < old french Arabi < latin Arabs < ancient greek Άραψ | Araps [gen. Άραβος | Arabhos) < arabic ‘arab (= (?) inhabitant of the desert).

arbiter < middle english arbiter < old french arbitre (= arbiter, judge) < latin arbiter (= a judge, mediator) < ad (= to) + beto / bito [inf. betere / bitere] (= walk, go).

arc < middle english arc < old french arc (= bow, arch) < latin arcus (= bow, arch) < proto-italic *arkwo- (= bow).

arcade < french arcade < (?) italian arcata (= arch of a bridge) < arco (= arc) < latin arcus (= bow, arch).

arch < old french arche < latin arcus (= bow, arch).

archaeology < french archéologie < ancient greek αρχαιολογία | arkhaeologhia < αρχαίος | arkhaeos (= ancient) (< αρχή | arkhē (= a beginning)) + -λογία | -loghia (= study) (< λόγος | loghos (= a speaking) < λέγω | leghō (= speak)).

archbishop < old english ærcebiscop < late latin archiepiscopus < ancient greek αρχιεπίσκοπος | arkhiepiskopos < άρχω | arkhō (= be the first, rule) + επίσκοπος | episkopos (= bishop) (< επί | epi (= upon) + σκοπός | skopos (= watcher) (< σκέπτομαι | skeptomae (= watch, examine, think))).

architecture < middle french architecture < latin architectura < architectus (= master builder) < ancient greek αρχιτέκτων | arkhitektōn (= master builder) < άρχω | arkhō (= to lead, rule) + τέκτων | tektōn (= builder).

archives < french archif < late latin archivum (= written record) < ancient greek αρχείον | arkhoeon (= town hall, public building) < αρχή | arkhē (= a beginning, government) < άρχω | arkhō (= be the first, lead, rule).

arduous < latin arduus (= high, steep).

are < old english earun / aron < proto-germanic *ar- < I.E. *es- (= to be).

area < latin area (= level ground, open space) < (?) areo (= become dry).

arena < latin harena (= sand, sandy place, place of combat) < (?) etruscan origin.

aria < italian aria < latin aer (= air) < ancient greek αήρ | aēr [gen. αέρος | a-eros] (= air, mist, haze).

arid < french aride (= dry) < latin aridus (= dry) < areo [inf. arere] (= be dry).

Aries < latin aries (= ram).

arise < old english arisan (= get up) < a- (= on, in) + rise (< risan (= rise) < proto-germanic *us-rīsanan (= go up).

Argentina < latin argentinus (= of silver) < argentum (= silver).

argot < french argot [the jargon of Paris rogues and thieves] < middle french argot (= group of beggars) < (?) old french argoter (= cut off the stubs left in pruning).

argue < old french arguer < latin arguo [inf. arguere] (= to check, prove, declare).

aristocracy < middle french aristocracie < late latin aristocratia < ancient greek αριστοκρατία | aristokratia (= aristocracy) < άριστος | aristos (= best of its kind, noblest) + κράτος | kratos (= rule, power).

arithmetic < middle english arsmetike < old french arsmetique < latin arithmetica < ancient greek αριθμητική [τέχνη] | arithmētikē [tekhnē] (= counting [art]) < αριθμητική, female of αριθμητικός | arithmētikos (= arithmetical) < αριθμός | arithmos (= number).

ark < old english earc < latin arca (= large box, chest).

arm (= upper limb) < old english earm < proto-germanic *armaz < I.E. *ar- (= fit together).

arm (= weapon) < middle english armes [plural] < old french armes [plural] < latin arma [plural] (= weapons) < I.E. *ar(ə)mo- < *ar- (= fit together).

Arnold < old high german Arenwald < arn (= eagle) + wald (= power).

aroma < middle english aroma < latin aroma (= sweet odor) < ancient greek άρωμα | arōma (= sweet herb).

arrange < arengen (= set a line of battle) < old french arengier (= put in battle order) < a- (< ad (= to)) + rangier (= set in a row) (< rang (= rank)).

array < old french areyer < areer (= put in order) < vulgar latin *arredo [inf. arredare] (= put in order) < latin ad (= to) + *redum (< frankish *ræd- (= ready)).

arrest < old french arester (= stay, stop) < vulgar latin *arresto [inf. arrestare] (= stop) < ad (= to) + latin resto [inf. restare] (= stop) (< re- (= back) + sto [inf. stare] (= stand)).

arrive < anglo-french ariver / old french ariver (= come to land) < vulgar latin *arripo [inf. arripare] (= touch the shore) < latin ad ripam (= to the shore) < ad (= to) + ripa (= shore).

arrogate < latin arrogatus, past participle of arrogo [inf. arrogare] < adrogo [inf. adrogare] (= claim for oneself) < ad (= to) + rogo [inf. rogare] (= ask, request).

around < middle english around < on round < a- (= on, in) + round (< anglo-french rounde < vulgar latin *retundus < latin rotundus (= circular)).

arouse < a- (= on, in) + middle english rouse (< (?) old french r(e)user (= stir up, awake)).

arrow < old english arwan < earh (= arrow) < (?) old norse ör [gen. örvar].

arsenal < italian arzenale < arabic dar as-sina’ah (= workshop) < dar (= house) + sina’ah (= art, craft).

art < old french art < latin ars [gen. artis] (= work of art, craft) < I.E. *ar(ə)-ti- < *ar- (= fit together).

arthritis < latin arthritis < ancient greek αρθρίτις [νόσος] | arthritis [nosos] (= [disease] of the joints) < αρθρίτις, female of αρθρίτης | arthritēs (= pertaining to joints) < άρθρον | arthron (= a joint).

Arthur < medieval latin Art(h)urus < (?) welsh arth (= bear).

article < old french article < latin articulus (= part, member), a diminutive of artus (= a joint) < I.E. *ar(ə)-tu- < *ar- (= fit together).

artificial < middle english artificial < old french artificial < latin artificialis (= belonging to art) < artificium (= a work of art, skill) < artifex [gen. artificis] (= artist, craftsman) < ars [gen. artis] (= art) + facio [inf. facere] (= do, make).

as < old english alswa (= quite so).

ascend < middle english ascend < latin ascendo [inf. ascendere] (= climb up, rise) < ad (= to) + scando [inf. scandere] (= climb).

ascetic < ancient greek ασκητικός | askētikos (= of hermits) < ασκητής | askētēs (= monk, hermit) < ασκώ | askō (= to exercise, train).

ash < old english æsce (= ash) < proto-germanic *askon < I.E. *as- (= burn).

ask < old english ascian < ahsian < proto-germanic *aiskojanan < I.E. *ais- (= wish).

Ashley < Ashley / Ashleigh < old english æsc (= ash tree) (< proto-germanis *askaz) + leah (= open field).

Asia < latin Asia < ancient greek Ασία | Asia < (?) 1. akkadian asu (= sunrise) or 2. sanskrit usa (= sunrise).

aspect < latin aspectus (= sight, view, appearance) < aspectus, past participle of aspicio [inf. aspicere] < adspicio [inf. adspicere] (= look at, observe) < ad (= to) + specio [inf. specere] (= look).

aspire < old french aspirer < latin aspiro [inf. aspirare] < adspiro [inf. adspirare] (= breathe upon) < ad (= to) + spiro [inf. spirare] (= breathe).

assassin < medieval french / italian Assassini < Assissini < arabic hashishin [a nickname for the Nizari Ismaili sect in Lebanon, who had the reputation of intoxicating themselves by hashish for murdering the opposing leaders] < hashishin, plural of hashishiyy (= hashish).

assault < old french as(s)aut < vulgar latin *adsaltus (= attack) < ad (= to) + latin saltus (= a leap) (< salio [inf. salire] (= to jump)).

assemble < old french assembler (= join, gather) < latin assimulo [inf. assimulare] (= gather) < adsimulo [inf. adsimulare] (= liken, compare, copy) < ad (= to) + simulo [inf. simulare] (= make like) (< similis (= similar).

assert < latin assertus, past participle of assero [inf. asserere] < adsero [inf. adserere] (= to claim, appropriate) < ad (= to) + sero [inf. serere] (= join together, put in a row).

assess < middle english assess < anglo-french assesser < medieval latin assesso [inf. assessare] (= fix a tax upon) < latin assessus, past participle of assideo [inf. assidere] < adsideo [inf. adsidere] (= to sit beside, serve) < ad (= to) + sedeo [inf. sedere] (= to sit).

assets < anglo-french assetz < old french assez (= sufficiency, satisfaction) < vulgar latin *ad satis (= to sufficiency) < latin ad (= to) + satis (= enough).

assign < middle english assign < old french assigner (= assign) < latin assigno [inf. assignare] < adsigno [inf. adsignare] (= mark out, assign) < ad (= to) + signo [inf. signare] (= make a sign) (< signum (= mark, sign)).

assimilate < middle english assimilate < latin assimilatus, past participle of assimilo [inf. assimilare] < assimulo [inf. assimulare] < adsimulo [inf. adsimulare] (= copy, imitate) < ad (= to) + simulo [inf. simulare] (= make similar) (< similis (= similar)).

assist < middle english assisten (= help, aid) < old french assister (= help) < latin assisto [inf. assistere] < adsisto [inf. adsistere] (= stand by) < ad (= to) + sisto [inf. sistere] (= stand still) (< sto [inf. stare] (= stand)).

associate < latin associates, past participle of associo [inf. associare] < adsocio [inf. adsociare] (= join with) < ad (= to) + socio [inf. sociare] (= unite with) (< socius (= companion, ally)).

assort < middle english assort < old french assorter (= to assort, match) < a- (< latin ad (= to)) + sorte (= category) (< latin sors [gen. sortis] (= share, category)).

assume < latin assumo [inf. assumere] < adsumo [inf. adsumere] (= take up, take besides) < ad (= to) + sumo [inf. sumere] (= take) (< sub (= under) + emo [inf. emere] (= take)).

assure < middle english assure < old french asseurer (= to calm, render sure) < vulgar latin *assecuror [inf. assecurari] < ad (= to) + securus (= safe, secure).

asthma < middle english asma < latin asthma < ancient greek άσθμα | asthma (= shortness of breath).

astonish < middle english astonien < old french estoner (= stun, daze) < vulgar latin *extono [inf. extonare] < latin ex (= out) + tono [inf. tonare] (= to thunder).

astound < middle english astound < middle english asto(u)ned, past participle of aston(i)en (= to stun) < old french estoner (= to stun, daze) < vulgar latin *extono [inf. extonare] < latin ex (= out) + tono [inf. tonare] (= to thunder).

astray < middle english o strai (= lost) < old french estraie, past participle of estraier (= wander) < estree (= route) < 1. latin via strata (= paved road) < via (= road) + strata, female past participle of sterno [inf. sternere] (= lay down) or 2. vulgar latin *estra(va)go [inf. estra(va)gare] (= wander outside) < extra (= outside) + vagor [inf. vagari] (= to wander).

astrology < middle english astrology (= foretelling based on stars’ moving) < latin astrologia (= astronomy) < ancient greek αστρολογία | astrologhia (= astronomy) < άστρον | astron (= star) + -λογία | -loghia (= study) (< λόγος | loghos (= a speaking) < λέγω | leghō (= speak)).

astronaut < ancient greek άστρον | astron (= star) + ναύτης | naftēs (= sailor) (< ναυς | nafs (= ship)).

astronomy < middle english astronomy < old french astronomie (= astronomy, astrology) < latin astronomia < ancient greek αστρονομία | astronomia < αστρονόμος | astronomos (= star-regulating) < άστρον | astron (= star) + νόμος | nomos (= rule, law).

asylum < middle english asylum < asile < latin asylum (= sanctuary) < ancient greek άσυλον | asylon (= refuge) < άσυλον, neuter of άσυλος | asylos (= inviolable) < α- | a- (= without) + συλώ | sylō (= to seize).

at < old english æt < proto-germanic *at < I.E. *ad- (= to, at, near).

atelier < french atelier (= workshop) < old french astelier (= woodpile) < astele (= piece of wood, splinter) < (?) late latin hastella (= thin stick), a diminutive of hasta (= spear, shaft).

atheist < french athéiste < ancient greek άθεος | atheos (= denying the gods, godless) < α- | a- (= without) + θεός | theos (= god).

athlete < latin athleta (= wrestler, athlete) < ancient greek αθλητής | athlētēs (= prizefighter) < αθλώ | athlō (= contest for a prize) < άθλος | athlos (= feat, deed).

atmosphere < atmosphaera < modern latin atmosphaera < ancient greek ατμός | atmos (= vapor, steam) + σφαίρα | sphaera (= sphere).

atom < latin atomus (= indivisible particle) < ancient greek άτομος | atomos (= uncut) < α- | a- (= without) + τόμος | tomos (= a cutting) (< τέμνω | temnō (= cut)).

atrocious < latin atrox [gen. atrocis] (= fierce, savage).

atrophy < french atrophie < late latin atrophia < ancient greek ατροφία | atrophia (= a wasting away) < άτροφος | atrophos (= ill-fed, un-nourished) < α- | a- (= without) + τροφή | trophē (= nourishment) (< τρέφω | trephō (= to fatten)).

attach < old french atachier (= fasten) < estachier (= attach, fix) < a- (< latin ad (= to)) + (?) frankish *stak(k)on (= a post, stake).

attack < french attaquer < italian attaccare [battaglia] (= join [battle]) < a- (< latin ad (= to)) + vulgar latin *stacco [inf. staccare] (< frankish * stak(k)on (= a post, stake)).

attempt < old french atempter < atenter (= try, test) < latin attempto [inf. attemptare] < adtempto [inf. adtemptare] (= try, attack, assail) < ad (= to) + tempto [inf. temptare] (= try).

attention < old french attencion < latin attentio (= attention) < attendo [inf. attendere] (= give heed to) < ad (= to) + tendo [inf. tendere] (= stretch).

attenuate < latin attenuatus, past participle of attenuo [inf. attenuare] (= make thin, diminish) < ad (= to) + tenuo [inf. tenuare] (= make thin) (< tenuis (= thin)).

attitude < french attitude < italian attitudine (= disposition, posture) < late latin aptitudo [gen. aptitudinis] (= fitness) < latin aptus (= joined, fitted).

attorn < old french atorner (= turn to, attribute) < a- (< latin ad (= to) + tourner (= turn) (< latin torno [inf. tornare] (= turn on a lathe) < tornus (= lathe) < ancient greek τόρνος | tornos (= lathe)).

attract < latin attractus, past participle of attraho [inf. attrahere] < adtraho [inf. adtrahere] (= draw, pull) < ad (= to) + traho [inf. trahere] (= pull).

attribute < latin attributus, past participle of attribuo [inf. attribuere] < adtribuo [inf. adtribuere] (= assign to, commit) < ad (= to) + tribuo [inf. tribuere] (= assign, give).

auberge < french auberge < old french alberge < herberge (= military station) < frankish *heriberga.

aubergine < french aubergine < catalan alberginera < arabic al-badinjan (= the eggplant) < persian badin-gan < sanskrit vatigagama.

auction < latin auctio [gen. auctionis] (= increment, public sale) < augeo [inf. augere] (= to increase).

audio < latin audio [inf. audire] (= hear, listen).

audition < middle french audicion (= hearing [in a court of law]) < latin auditio [gen. auditionis] (= a hearing) < audio [inf. audire] (= hear, listen).

Audrey < Aldreda < Etheldreda < old english Æðelðryð < æðele (= noble) + ðryð (= strength, might).

augment < middle english augment < old french augmenter (= increase) < late latin augmento [inf. augmentare] (= to increase) < latin augmentum (= growth) < augeo [inf. augere] (= to increase).

augur < latin augur (= interpreter of omens) < (?) old latin *augos [gen. augeris] (= increase).

August < latin Augustus, in honor of emperor Augustus Caesar < augustus (= venerable) < augur (= augurer, diviner).

aunt < anglo-french aunte / old french ante < latin amita (= paternal aunt), a diminutive of *amma (= mommy).

aurora < latin Aurora, the goddess of dawn.

auspicious < latin auspicium (= divination by observing the birds’ flight) < auspex [gen. auspices] (= interpreter of birds’ omens) < I.E. *awi-spek- < *awi- (= bird) + *spek- (= observe).

austere < old french austere (= strict, severe, cruel) < latin austerus (= dry, harsh, sour) < ancient greek αυστηρός | afstēros (= bitter, harsh, strict).

Austin < old french Aousten < Augustine < latin Augustinus, a diminutive of Augustus (= venerable) < augur (= augurer, diviner).

austral < latin australis (= southern) < auster (= south wind, south).

Australia < modern latin [Terra] Australis (= southern [land]) < australis (= southern) < auster [gen. austris] (= south wind, south).

Austria < medieval latin [Marchia] austriaca (= eastern [borderland]) [from the german point of view, cf. german Österreich < old high german ostar (= eastern) + reich (= kingdom)] < auster [gen. austris] (= east, [later] south).

authentic < middle english autentik < old french autentique < medieval latin authenticus < ancient greek αυθεντικός | afthentikos (= original) < αυθέντης | afthentēs (= one acting on one's own authority).

author < middle english auctor / auto(u)r < old french auct(e)or < latin auctor (= producer, father, founder) < auctus, past participle of augeo [inf. augere] (= to increase).

autism < german Autismus < ancient greek αυτός | aftos (= self) + [suffix] -ismus (= action, state).

autograph < french autographe < late latin autographum < ancient greek αυτόγραφον | autoghraphon, neuter of αυτόγραφος | autoghraphos (= written with one's own hand) < αυτός | aftos (= self) + γράφω | graphō (= write, draw).

automatic < ancient greek αυτόματος | aftomatos (= acting of one's own will, self-moving) < αυτός | aftos (= self) + -ματος | -matos (= thinking).

autonomy < ancient greek αυτονομία | aftonomia (= independence) < αυτόνομος | aftonomos (= independent) < αυτός | aftos (= self) + νόμος | nomos (= rule, law).

autopsy < modern latin autopsia < ancient greek αυτοψία | aftopsia (= a seeing with one's own eyes) < αυτόπτης | aftoptēs (= eyewitness) < αυτός | aftos (= self) + stem οπ- | -op of ‘ορώ | ^horō (= see).

autumn < middle english autumpne < old french autumpne / automne < latin autumnus < auctumnus (= autumn).

auxiliary < latin auxiliaris (= aiding) < auxilium (= aid, help), related to auctus, past participle of augeo [inf. augere] (= to increase).

avail < middle english availen < old french a- (< latin ad (= to) + valoir (= be worth) (< latin valeo [inf. valere] (= be strong)).

avatar < sanskrit avatarana (= descent [of a deity to the earth in incarnate form]) < ava- (= off, down) + tarati (= [he] crosses over).

avenge < middle english avenge < anglo-french avenger / old french avengier < a- (< latin ad (= to)) + vengier (= take revenge) (< latin vindico [inf. vindicare] (= to claim, avenge)).

avenue < middle french avenue < old french avenue (= arrival) < avenu, past participle of avenir (= come to, arrive) < latin advenio [inf. advenire] (= come to, reach) < ad (= to) + venio [inf. venire] (= come).

average < french avarie < italian avaria (= damage to ship) < arabic ‘awariya (= damaged merchandise).

avert < middle english avert < old french avertir (= turn, direct) < latin averto [inf. avertire] (= turn away) < ab (= off, away) + verto [inf. vertere] (= to turn).

aviation < french aviation < latin avis (= bird) < I.E. *awi- (= bird).

avocado < spanish avocado [by influence of folk etymology of spanish avocado (= lawyer) (< latin advocates)] < aguacate < nahuatl (of Aztecs) ahuakatl (= avocado).

avoid < anglo-french avoider < old french esvuidier (= empty out) < es- (< latin ex (= out) + vuidier (= be empty) (< voide (= empty, vast) < latin vocivus (= empty) < latin vacivus < latin vacuus (= vacant)).

await < middle english awaiten < old french awaitier (= to watch, observe) < a- (< latin ad (= to)) + waitier (= to watch) (< frankish *wahton < proto-germanic *waht-).

awake < a merger of: 1. middle english awaken (< old english awæcnan < onwæcnan (= to awake, arise) < a (= on, in) + wacan (= to arise)) + 2. middle english awakien (< old english awacian (= to awaken, arise) < a (= on, in) + wacian (= to be awake, watch)).

award < anglo-french awarder < old french eswarder (= decide, judge) < es- (< latin ex (= out) + warder (= watch).

aware < old english gewær (= vigilant) < proto-germanic *ga-waraz < [prefix] *ga- (= with, together) + *waraz (= wary, cautious).

away < old english aweg < on weg (= on from a place) < a- (= on, in) + weg (= road) (< proto-germanic *wega- (= way)).

awe < middle english aue (= fear, terror) < aghe < (?) proto-germanic *agiz- (= fear, pain)).

awk < old norse afugr (= turned backwards, contrary) < proto-germanic *afug- (= off, away).

awkward < awk (= back-handed) (< old norse afugr (= contrary)) + [suffix] -ward (< old english -weard (= turn toward) < proto-germanic *werda- (= turn)).

axe < old english ces (= axe, pickaxe, hatchet) < proto-germanic *akusjo < I.E. *agw(e)si- (= axe).

axis < latin axis (= axle, pivot) < I.E. *aks- (= axis).

azimuth < old french azimut < arabic as-sumut, plural of as-samt (= the way, direction).

Azores < (?) portuguese açores, plural of açor (= vulture).

Aztec < spanish Azteca < nahuatl aztecatl (= coming from Aztlan).

azure < old french azur / asur < medieval latin lazur(i) < persian lazaward (= the stone lapis lazuli) < Lajward, a place in Turkestan [where this stone was collected].