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piano < italian piano, a shortening of pianoforte < piano e forte (= soft and loud) < latin planus (= flat, smooth), et (= and), fortis (= strong).

piazza < italian piazza (= public square) < latin platea (= courtyard, broad street) < ancient greek πλατεία [‘οδός] | platoea [^hodhos] (= broad [street]) < πλατύς | platys (= flat, broad).

pick < middle english picken / piken < (?) a fusion of [old english *pician (= to prick) + old norse pikka (= to prick, peck)] < germanic source.

pickle < middle english pickle < (?) middle dutch pekel (= pickle, brine).

picnic < french piquenique < (?) 1. a reduplication of piquer (= to pick, peck) < old french pic (= sharp point) or 2. piquer + nique (= worthless thing).

pictogram < latin pictus (= painted), past participle of pingo [inf. pingere] (= to paint) + -gram (< ancient greek γράμμα | ghramma (= letter) < γράφω | ghraphō (= write, draw)).

picture < middle english picture < latin pictura (= painting) < pictus, past participle of pingo [inf. pingere] (= to paint).

pie < middle english pie < medieval latin pie (= meat enclosed in pastry) < (?) related to pia (= pie, pastry).

piece < middle english piece < old french piece (= piece, item, coin) < vulgar latin *pettia < (?) gaulish *pettsi < (?) old celtic *kwezd-i- < I.E. *kwezd- (= part, piece).

pierce < middle english pierce < anglo-french perser / old french percier (= pierce, drive through) < (?) vulgar latin *pertusio [inf. pertusiare] < latin pertusus, past participle of pertundo [inf. pertundere] (= thrust through) < per (= through) + tundo [inf. tundere] (= to beat).

Pierre < french Pierre < latin Petrus < ancient greek Πέτρος | Petros < πέτρα | petra (= stone, rock).

pierrot < french Pierrot, a diminutive of Pierre (q.v.).

piety < middle english piety < old french piete (= piety, pity, compassion) < latin pietas (= sense of duty, piety, pity) < pius (= kind).

pig < (?) old english *picg (= young pig).

pigeon < middle english pigeon < old french pigeon (= young dove) < (?) vulgar latin *pibio < late latin pipio (= squab, young chirping bird) < pipio [inf. pipire] (= to peep, chirp) < imitative origin.

pigment < middle english pigment < latin pigmentum (= coloring matter, pigment, paint) < pingo [inf. pingere] (= to paint).

pike (= highway) < a shortening of turnpike.

pike (= spear) < middle french pique (= spear, pikeman) < piquer (= to pick, pierce) < old french pic (= sharp point) < (?) germanic / celtic source.

Pilate < latin Pilatus (= armed with javelin) < pilum (= javelin).

Pilates < [1980] [Joseph] Pilates, physical fitness teacher.

pile (= mass) < middle english pile (= pillar, pier of a bridge) < middle french pile < latin pila (= stone barrier, pillar).

pile (= raised surface upon cloth) < middle english pile (= downy plumage) < [anglo-french pyle / middle dutch pijl] < latin pilus (= hair).

pilgrim < middle english pilegrim < old french pelerin / peregrin (= pilgrim, crusader, foreigner) < late latin pelegrinus < latin peregrinus (= foreigner) < peregre (= from abroad) (< per (= through) + agri, locative of ager (= field, country, land).

pill < middle english pile < [middle dutch / middle low german pille / middle french pile] < latin pilula (= little ball, pill), a diminutive of pila (= ball, playing ball) < (?) pilus (= hair).

pillage < middle english pillge < old french pilage (= plunder) < pillier (= to plunder) < (?) vulgar latin *pilio [inf. piliare] (= to plunder) < (?) latin pilo [inf. pilare] (= to strip of hair) < pilus (= hair).

pillar < middle english pillar < old french piler (= pillar, column) < medieval latin pilare < latin pila (= pillar, stone barrier).

pilot < middle french pillote < italian piloto < old italian pedoto < medieval greek *πηδότης | *pēdhotēs (= rudder, helmsman) < ancient greek πηδόν | pēdhon (= steering oar) < I.E. *ped- (= foot).

pin < old english pinn (= peg, bolt) < proto-germanic *penn- (= jutting point) < latin pinna (= feather, plume).

PIN < [1981] an acronym for Personal Identification Number.

pinch < middle english pinch < old french *pinchier (= to pinch, squeeze) < (?) vulgar latin *punctio [inf. punctiare] (= to pierce) < (?) a blend of latin punctum (= point) + *picco [inf. piccare] (= to pierce).

pine (= pine tree) < old english pin < old french pin < latin pinus (= pine tree).

pine (= lanquish) < old english pinian (= to torture) < *pine (= pain, punishment) < (?) latin poena (= punishment) < ancient greek ποινή | poenē (= penalty).

pineapple < middle french pineapple (= pine cone) < pine + apple.

ping-pong < [1900] ping + pong < imitative of the sound.

pink < (?) 1. pink (= pierce, stab) or 2. old english pyngan < latin pungo [inf. pungere] (= to prick, pierce) or 3. dutch pink (= small) < pinck [oogen] (= half-closed, small [eyes]).

pinnace < middle french pinace < spinace < old french espinace < (?) italian pinaccia / spanish pinaza < pino (= pine tree, ship) < latin pinus (= pine tree, ship, vessel).

pioneer < middle french pionnier < old french paonier (= foot-soldier) < peon < pe(h)on (= a foot-soldier, a chess pawn) < medieval latin pedo [gen. pedonis] (= foot soldier) < late latin pedo [gen. pedonis] (= going on foot) < latin pes [gen. pedis] (= foot) < I.E. *ped- (= foot).

pip < a shorteninig of pipin (= seed) < old french pepin.

pipe < old english pipe < vulgar latin *pipa (= pipe, musical wind instrument) {> italian pipa, french pipe, swedish pipa, danish pibe, dutch pijp, german Pfeife} < latin pipo [inf. pipare] (= to chirp, peep) < imitative origin.

pippin < middle english pipin (= seed) < old french pepin.

piranha < portuguese piranha < tupi (of Brazil) pira nya (= fish biting).

pirate < middle english pirate < latin pirata (= sailor, corsair) < ancient greek πειρατής | poeratēs (= pirate, sea robber) < πειρώ | poerō (= to attack, try) < πείρα | poera (= trial, attempt, attack).

pirogi < russian pirogi, plural of pirog (= meat pie).

pirogue < french pirogue < (?) galibi (of Caribbean sea) piragua (= dug-out).

pirouette < french pirouette < middle french pirouet (= spinning top) < gallo-roman *pir- (= peg, plug).

Pisces < old english Pisces < latin pisces, plural of piscis (= fish) < I.E. *pisk- (= a fish).

piscine < middle english piscine < old french piscine (= fishpond) < latin piscina (= fishpond, lake) < piscis (= fish) < I.E. *pisk- (= fish).

piss < middle english piss < old french pissier (= urinate) < vulgar latin *pissio [inf. pissiare] (= urinate) < imitative origin.

pistachio < italian pistacchio < latin pistacium (= pistachio nut) < ancient greek πιστάκιον | pistakion (= pistachio nut) < πιστάκη | pistakē (= pistachio tree) < persian pistah (= pistachio).

pistol < middle french pistole (= short firearm) < (?) german Pistole < czech pis’tala (= tube, pipe, firearm) < pisteti (= to whistle) < imitative origin.

piston < french piston < middle french piston (= large pestle) < old italian pistone (= piston) < pestone (= pestle) < pestare (= to pound) < late latin pisto [inf. pistare] (= to pound) < latin pinso [inf. pinsere] (= to pound).

pit < old english pytt (= well, pit, grave) < proto-germanic *putt- (= pool, puddle) < latin puteus (= well, pit, shaft).

pitch (= tar) < middle english pich < old english pic (= pitch) < germanic source.

pitch (= thrust in) < middle english pitch (= fasten, settle) < (?) old english *piccean.

pity < middle english pity < old french pite(t) (= pity, mercy, care, compassion) < latin pietas (= sense of duty, piety, pity) < pius (= kind).

pivot < french pivot < old french pivot (= hinge pin, pivot).

pixel < [1969] pix (< pics, a shortening of picture) + el- (< element).

pizza < italian pizza < (?) 1. late latin picea [placenta] (= tarred-like [pie]) < latin piceus (= tarred) < pix [gen. picis] (= tar) or 2. italian [dialectal] pinza (= clamp) < latin pinso [inf. pinsere] (= to pound, stamp) or 3. medieval greek πίττα | pitta (= pie) or 4. germanic source.

placate < 1. placation < french placation < latin placation (= a pacifying) < placo [inf. placare] (= to calm, quiet) < placeo [inf. placere] (= to please) or 2. latin placatus, past participle of placo [inf. placare] < placeo [inf. placere].

place < middle english place < old french place (= place, spot) < medieval latin placea (= place, spot) < latin platea (= courtyard, broad street) < ancient greek πλατεία [‘οδός] | platoea [^hodhos] (= broad [street]) < πλατύς | platys (= flat, broad).

placebo (= a medicine to please than to benefit) < middle english placebo (= the rite of Vespers of the Office of the Dead) [so called from placebo, the first word of its antiphon] < latin placebo (= I shall please), future tense of placeo [inf. placere] (= to please).

plage < middle english plage < old french plage < late latin plagia (= plain, shore) < latin plaga₍₂₎ (= region, climate).

plague < middle english plage < old french plage < late latin plaga < latin plaga₍₁₎ (= stroke, wound) < (?) plango [inf. plangere] (= to strike).

plain < middle english plain < old french plain (= open countryside) < latin planum (= level ground, plain) < planum, neuter of planus (= flat, level).

plan < french plan (= ground plan, map) < latin planum (= level ground, plain) < planum, neuter of planus (= flat, level).

plane (= flat surface) < latin planum (= level ground, plain) < planum, neuter of planus (= flat, level).

plane (= plane tree) < middle english plane < old french plane < plasne < latin platanus < ancient greek πλάτανος | platanos < πλατάνιστος | platanistos (= plane tree).

planet < old english planete < old french planete < late latin planeta < ancient greek πλανήτης | planētēs < πλανήτης [αστήρ] | planētēs [astēr] (= wandering [star]) < πλανώμαι | planōmae (= to wander).

planetarium < modern latin planetarium < late latin planeta [see planet] + latin -arium (= place for).

plank < middle english plank < old french planke < planche (= plank, slab) < late latin planca (= broad slab) < (?) latin plancus (= flat).

plankton < german Plankton < ancient greek πλαγκτόν | plagkton, neuter of πλαγκτός | plagktos (= wandering, drifting) < πλάζω | plazō (= drive astray).

plant < old english plante < latin planta (= sprout, shoot) < (?) *planto [inf. plantare] (= drive in with the feet, push in with the feet) < planta (= sole of the foot).

plaque < french plaque (= metal plate, coin) < (?) flemish placke (= small coin) < middle dutch placke (= disk, patch).

plasma < late latin plasma < ancient greek πλάσμα | plasma (= something created, image, figure) < πλάσσω | plassō (= to mold).

plaster < old english plaster < vulgar latin *plastrum < latin emplastrum (= plaster) < ancient greek έμπλαστρον | emplastron (= salve, plaster) < έμπλαστρον, neuter of εμπλαστρός | emplastros < εμπλαστός | emplastos (= daubed on) < εμπλάσσω | emplassō (= to mold in) < εν | en (= in, on) + πλάσσω | plassō (= to mold).

plastic < latin plasticus < ancient greek πλαστικός | plastikos (= able to be molded, fit for molding) < πλαστός | plastos (= molded, formed) < πλάσσω | plassō (= to mold).

plate < middle english plate < old french plate (= metal sheet) < medieval latin plata (= plate, metal piece) < (?) vulgar latin *plattus < ancient greek πλατύς | platys (= flat, broad).

plateau < french plateau (= table-land) < old french platel (= flat piece), a diminutive of plat (= flat surface) < plat (= flat) < vulgar latin *plattus < ancient greek πλατύς | platys (= flat, broad).

platform < middle french plateforme < platte fourme (= flat form) < old french plat (= flat) + forme (= form).

platinum < modern latin platinum < spanish platina (= platinum), a diminutive of plata (= silver) [because this metal looks like silver] < old french plate (= metal sheet) < medieval latin plata (= plate, metal piece) < (?) vulgar latin *plattus < ancient greek πλατύς | platys (= flat, broad).

platitude < french platitude (= flatness) < old french plat (= flat) < vulgar latin *plattus < ancient greek πλατύς | platys (= flat, broad) [on model of latitude].

platonic < latin Platonicus < ancient greek Πλατωνικός | Platōnikos (= of Plato) < Πλάτων | Platōn (= Plato), the philoshopher (< πλατύς | platys (= broad)).

platoon < french peloton (= platoon, group of people) < middle french peloton (= little ball) < a diminutive of old french pelote (= ball) < medieval latin pelotis < vulgar latin *pilotta < a diminutive of latin pila (= ball, playing ball) < (?) pilus (= hair).

play < old english pleg(i)an (= move rapidly, exercise, occupy) < proto-west germanic *plegōjanan (= occupy about).

plea < anglo-french plai / old french plait (= lawsuit, decision) < medieval latin placitum (= lawsuit) < latin placitum (= opinion, decree), neuter past participle of placeo [inf. placere] (= to please).

please < middle english please < old french plaisir (= to please, satisfy) < latin placeo [inf. placere] (= to please, be liked).

plebeian < latin plebeius (= belonging to the plebs) < pleb(e)s (= the populace, the common people) [as opposite to patricians].

pledge < middle english pledge < old french plege (= hostage, security) < (?) frankish *plegan (= to guarantee) < west germanic *pleg- (= have responsibility for).

plenty < middle english plenty < old french plentee < plentet (= abundance) < latin plenitas (= fullness) < plenus (= full, filled, abundant, complete).

plot (= make a diagram) < old english plot (= small piece of ground).

plow < old english plog / ploh (= plow, plowland) < proto-germanic *plogo-.

plug < (?) dutch plug < middle dutch plugge (= bung, stopper).

plum < old english plume (= plum) < vulgar latin *pruna < latin prunum (= plum) < ancient greek προύνον | prounon < προύμνον | proumnon (= plum).

plumb < middle english plumb < old french *plombe / plomee < late latin *plumba [plural] < latin plumbum (= lead metal, lead ball, pipe).

plunge < middle english plunge < old french plongier (= sink into, dive in) < vulgar latin *plumbico [inf. plumbicare] (= heave the lead) < latin plumbum (= lead metal, lead ball, pipe).

plural < middle english plural < old french plurel < latin pluralis (= belonging to more than one) < plus [gen. pluris] (= more), comparative of multus (= much).

plus < latin plus (= more), comparative of multus (= much).

Pluto < latin Pluto(n), the god of the underworld < ancient greek Πλούτων | Ploutōn, the god of wealth and underworld [where there are metals and gems] < πλούτος | ploutos (= wealth, riches) < I.E. *pleu- (= to flow).

p.m. < an abbreviation of latin post meridiem (= after noon) < post (= after) + meridiem (= noon) (< medius (= middle) + dies (= day)).

pneumatic < latin pneumaticus (= of the wind) < ancient greek πνευματικός | pneumatikos (= of the wind, of the air, of spirit) < πνεύμα | pneuma [gen. πνεύματος | pneumatos] (= wind, breath) < πνέω | pneō (= to blow, to breathe) < I.E. *pneu- (= to breathe).

pneumonia < modern latin pneumonia < ancient greek πνευμονία | pneumonia (= inflammation of the lungs) < πνεύμων | pneumōn (= lung) [by influence of πνέω | pneō (= to breathe)] < πλεύμων | pleumōn (= lung) < I.E. *pleu- (= to flow).

Pocahontas < algonquian Pokachantesu (= she is playful).

pock < old english pocc (= pustule, blister) < proto-germanic *puh(h)- (= to swell up).

pocket < middle english pokete, (= bag, small sack) < anglo-french pokete < a diminutive of old french poque (= bag) < proto-germanic *puk-

podium < latin podium (= raised platform) < ancient greek πόδιον | podhion (= foot of a vase), a diminutive of πους | pous [gen. ποδός | podhos] (= foot) < I.E. *ped- (= foot).

poem < middle french poème < latin poema < ancient greek ποίημα | poeēma (= thing made, poem) < ποιώ | poeō (= make, create, compose).

poet < middle english poet < old french poete < latin poeta < ancient greek ποιητής | poeētēs (= maker, author, poet) < ποιώ | poeō (= make, create, compose).

pogrom < yiddish pogrom < russian pogromu (= devastation, destruction) < po- (= by, through, behind) + gromu (= thunder, roar) (< I.E. *ghrem-).

point < middle english point < old french pointe (= point), point (= dot) < latin puncta, punctum, female and neuter past participle of pungo [inf. pungere] (= to prick, pierce).

poison < middle english poison < old french poison / puison (= drink, medical drink, poisonous drink) < latin potio (= a drink, poisonous drink) < poto [inf. potare] (= to drink) < I.E. *po(i)- (= to drink).

poke (= small sack) < middle english poke < (?) old french poque (= purse, purse-net) < proto-germanic *puk-.

poke (= to push) < middle english puken (= to poke, nudge) < (?) middle dutch poken (= to poke) / middle low german poken (= to stick with a knife) < proto-germanic *puk-.

poker < american english poker < 1. german Pochspiel, a card game < pochen (= to knock, to brag as a bluff) or 2. french poque, a card game.

Poland < Pole (< german Pole, singular of Polen < polish Polanie (= Poles) < pole (= field)) + land.

pole < middle english pole < old french pole < latin polus (= end of an axis, sky) < ancient greek πόλος | polos (= pivot, axis of a sphere, sky).

Pole < german Pole, singular of Polen < polish Polanie (= Poles) < pole (= field) < I.E. *pele-₍₂₎ (= flat, to spread).

polemic < french polémique < ancient greek πολεμικός | polemikos (= of war, warlike) < πόλεμος | polemos (= war).

police < middle french police (= civil regulation) < latin politia (= civil administration) < ancient greek πόλις | polis (= city).

policy < middle french police (= contract) < italian polizza (= evidence of a transaction) < old italian poliza < medieval latin apodissa (= receipt for money) < ancient greek απόδειξις | apodhoexis (= proof, declaration) < απoδείκνυμι | apodhoeknymi (= prove) < από | apo (= of) + δείκνυμι | dhoeknymi (= to show).

polish < middle english polischen < old french polir (= to polish, decorate) < latin polio [inf. polire] (= make smooth, decorate).

polite < middle english polite < latin politus (= refined, elegant) < politus, past participle of polio [inf. polire] (= make smooth, decorate).

politic < middle english politic < middle french politique < latin politicus (= civic, civil) < ancient greek πολιτικός | politikos (= of citizens, of public life) < πολίτης | politēs (= citizen) < πόλις | polis (= city).

poll < poll (= head) < middle english polle (= hair of the head, head, person) < middle low german / middle dutch pol (= head, top).

pollen < latin pollen (= mill dust, fine flour, pollen).

pollution < middle english pollution < late latin pollutio (= defilement) < latin polluo [inf. polluere] (= to soil, defile) < por- (= before) + luo [inf. luere] (= to smear).

polo < anglo-indian polo < balti (of Tibet) polo (= ball), related to tibetan pulu (= ball).

poltroon < middle french poultron (= rascal, coward) < italian poltrone (= lazy, coward) < *poltro (= couch, bed) < 1. germanic source or 2. latin pullus (= young animal).

polyester < poly- {< polymer < (?) german Polymere < ancient greek πολυμερής | polymerēs (= having many parts) < πολύς | polys (= many) + μέρος | meros (= part)} + ester {< (?) german Essigäther < Essig (= vinegar) + Äther (= ether)}.

polygon < latin polygonum < ancient greek πολύγωνον | polyghōnon, neuter of πολύγωνος | polyghōnos (= many-angled) < πολύς | polys (= many) + γωνία | ghōnia (= angle, corner).

polygraph < ancient greek πολυγράφος | polyghraphos (= writing much) < πολύς | polys (= many) + -γράφος | -ghraphos (= writer) (< γράφω | ghraphō (= write, draw)).

Polynesia < french Polynésie < ancient greek πολύς | polys (= many) + νήσος | nēsos (= island).

pomade < middle french pommade (= ointment) < italian pomata < pomo (= apple) < latin pomum (= fruit, apple).

pome < middle english pome < old french pome (= apple) < vulgar latin *poma < latin pomum (= fruit, apple).

pommel < middle english pommel < old french pomel (= rounded knob) < a diminutive of pom (= hilt of a sword) < late latin pomellum (= small apple) < a diminutive of latin pomum (= fruit, apple).

pomp < middle english pomp < old french pompe (= pomp, magnificence) < latin pompa (= procession, pomp) < ancient greek πομπή | pompē (= solemn procession, display) < πέμπω | pempō (= to send).

Pompeii < oscan pompe (= five) [so called in reference to five districts of this town] < I.E. *penkwe- (= five) {> latin quinque, ancient greek πέντε | pente}.

pompom < pompon (= tuft-like flower head) < french pompon, (?) related to old french pompe (= pomp).

ponder < middle english ponder < old french ponderer (= to weigh, poise) < latin pondero [inf. ponderare] (= to weigh, ponder, consider) < pondus [gen. ponderis] (= weight) < pendo [inf. pendere] (= to hang).

pontifex < latin pontifex (= high priest) < (?) pons [gen. pontis] (= bridge) + facio [inf. facere] (= make, do).

pony < powny < scottish powny < french poulenet (= little foal) < a diminutive of old french poulain (= foal) < late latin pullanus (= young of an animal) < latin pullus (= young animal).

pooh < old english pyffan (= blow with the mouth) < imitative origin.

pool (= small body of water) < old english pol (= small body of water) < proto-west germanic *pol-.

pool (game similar to billiards) < pool, a card game with stakes < french poule (= stakes) < old french poille (= hen, young fowl) < vulgar latin *pulla < latin pullus (= young animal).

poor < middle english poor < old french povre (= poor, wretched, weak) < latin pauper (= poor, weak).

pop (= hit with explosive sound) < middle english pop < imitative origin.

pop (= popular) < an abbreviation of popular (= public) < middle french populier < latin popularis (= public, general, common) < populus (= people).

pope < old english papa < latin papa (= tutor, bishop, pope) < ancient greek πάπας | papas (= father, patriarch, bishop).

poplin < french papeline (= cloth of fine silk) [a reference to Avignon, papal residence during the schism of 13c., center of silk manufacture] < (?) provençal papalino, female of papalin (= of the pope) < medieval latin papalis (= papal) < papa (= tutor, bishop, pope) < ancient greek πάπας | papas (= father, patriarch, bishop).

poppy < old english popig / popæg < west germanic *papua- < (?) vulgar latin *papavum < latin papaver (= poppy).

popular < middle english popular < middle french populier < latin popularis (= public, general, common) < populus (= people).

population < late latin populatio) (= a people, a multitude) < latin populus (= people).

porcelain < middle french porcelaine < italian porcellana (= cowrie shell, porcelain) [so called from resemblance to the shiny surface of a shell] < porcella (= young sow) < latin porcella, female of porcellus (= young pig), a diminutive of porculus (= piglet), a diminutive of porcus (= pig) < I.E. *porko- (= young pig).

porch < middle french porch < old french porche (= porch, vestibule) < latin porticus (= covered gallery, arcade, portico) < porta (= gate, door, entrance).

pork < middle french pork < old french porc (= pig, swine) < latin porcus (= pig) < I.E. *porko- (= young pig).

pornography < french pornographie < ancient greek πορνογράφος | pornoghraphos < πόρνη | pornē (= prostitute) + -γράφος | -ghraphos (= writer) (< γράφω | ghraphō (= write, draw)).

port (= harbor) < old english port < old french port < latin portus (= entrance, port, harbor).

port (= gateway) < old english port < old french porte (= gate, entrance) < latin porta (= entrance, city gate, gate, door).

portfolio < porto folio < italian portafoglio (= case for papers) < porta, imperative of porto [inf. portare] (= carry) + foglio (= sheet, leaf) < latin porto [inf. portare] (= carry), folium (= leaf).

portion < middle french portion < old french porcion (= part, portion) < latin portio (= share, part).

portmanteau < middle french portemanteau (= traveling bag) < porte, imperative of porter (= carry) (< latin porto [inf. portare] (= carry)) + manteau (= cloak, mantle) (< old french mantel < latin mantellum (= cloak)).

portrait < portraiture / middle french portrait < old french portret, past participle of portraire (= to paint) [see portray].

portray < middle english portray < anglo-french purtraire / old french portraire (= to paint) < por- (= forth) (< latin por-, pro (= forth)) + traire (= trace, draw) (< latin traho [inf. trahere] (= to drag, draw)).

Portugal < middle english Portyngale < medieval latin Portus Cale 1. (= warm Port) (< latin portus (= harbor, port), caldus (= warm)) or 2. (= Port of Gaya).

pose < middle english posen < old french poser (= put, place) < late latin pauso [inf. pausare] (= to halt, pause) < pausa (= a halt, stop) < ancient greek παύσις | pafsis (= a stopping) < παύω | pavō (= to stop, pause).

position < middle english position < old french posicion < latin positio (= situation, position) < pono [inf. ponere] (= put, place).

positive < middle english positive < old french positif < latin positivus (= positive) < positus, past participle of pono [inf. ponere] (= put, place).

possess < middle english possess < possession / old french possesser (= have and hold) < latin possideo [inf. possidere] (= have and hold, own) < (?) potis (= powerful, able) + sedeo [inf. sedere] (= to sit).

possible < middle english possible < old french possible < latin possibilis (= that can be done) < possum [inf. posse] (= be able) < potis (= powerful, able) + sum [inf. esse] (= I am).

post (= place when on duty) < middle french poste (= place for station, station for post horses) < italian posto (= post, station) < vulgar latin *postum < latin positum, neuter past participle of pono [inf. ponere] (= to put, place).

post (= pole) < old english / old french post < latin postis (= door, post, doorpost) < (?) por-, pro (= forth) + sto [inf. stare] (= to stand).

pot < old english pott / old french pot (= pot, container) < vulgar latin *pottus (= pot).

potato < spanish patata < (language of Haiti) batata (= sweet potato).

potential < middle english potential < old french potenciel < late latin potentialis (= potential) < latin potentia (= power, might, force) < potens (= powerful) < potis (= powerful, able).

potpourri < pot-pourri < french pot pourri (= rotten pot, stew) < pourri, past participle of pourrir (= to rot) (< vulgar latin *putrio [inf. putrire] < latin putresco [inf. putrescere] (= grow rotten) < putreo [inf. putrere] (= to rot)).

pound < old english pund < proto-germanic *punda- (= pound) < latin pondus (= weight) < pendo [inf. pendere] (= to hang).

pour < middle english pour < (?) old french purer (= to sift grain, pour out) < latin puro [inf. purare] (= purify) < purus (= pure).

p.o.v. < an acronym of point of view.

poverty < middle english poverty < old french poverte (= poverty, misery) < latin paupertas (= poverty) < pauper (= poor).

powder < middle english powder < old french poudre (= dust, powder, ashes) < pouldre < latin pulvis [gen. pulveris] (= dust, powder).

power < middle english power < anglo-french pouair / old french povoir (= to be able) < podir < vulgar latin *poteo [inf. potere] (= to be able) < latin potis (= powerful, able).

practical < middle english practicale < middle english practic / old french practique < late latin practicus (= practical, active) < ancient greek πρακτικός | praktikos (= fit for action, practical, effective) < πρακτός | praktos (= done) < πράττω | prattō (= do, act).

practice < middle english practice < old french practiser (= to practice) < practiquer < medieval latin practico [inf. practicare] (= do, perform) < late latin practicus (= practical) < ancient greek πρακτικός | praktikos (= fit for action, practical, effective) < πρακτός | praktos (= that to be done) < πράττω | prattō (= do, act).

praenomen < latin praenomen < prae (= before) + nomen (= name).

praetor < middle english praetor < latin praetor (= consul, leader of army) < prae (= before) + eo [inf. ire] (= go).

pragmatic < pragmatical / middle french pragmatique < latin pragmaticus < ancient greek πραγματικός | praghmatikos (= fit for business, active) < πράγμα | praghma [gen. πράγματος | praghmatos] (= thing, matter) < πράττω | prattō (= do, act).

Prague < czech Praha < (?) 1. related to pražiti (= forest cleared by burning) or 2. < prah (= threshold).

prairie < french prairie (= grassland) < old french prairie (= pastureland) < vulgar latin *prataria < latin pratum (= meadow).

praise < middle english praise < old french preisier < prisier (= to praise, value) < late latin precio [inf. preciare] < pretio [inf. pretiare] (= to value) < latin pretium (= reward, prize, value).

praline < prawlin < french praline < [Duplessis]-Praslin, a marshal [whose cook invented this sweet].

pray < middle english pray < old french preier (= to pray) < vulgar latin *preco [inf. precare] < latin precor [inf. precari] (= beg, entreat) < *prex [gen. precis] (= prayer, request).

preach < old english preachen < old french preechier (= to preach) < late latin praedico [inf. praedicare] (= proclaim, announce, preach) < latin prae (= before) + dico [inf. dicare] (= proclaim, say).

precaution < middle english precaution < french précaution < late latin praecautio (= a safeguarding) < latin praecaveo [inf. praecavere] (= to guard) < prae (= before) + caveo [inf. cavere] (= protect).

precede < middle english precede < middle french preceder < latin praecedo [inf. praecedere] (= go before) < prae (= before) + cedo [inf. cedere] (= go).

precious < middle english precious < old french precios (= costly, honorable) < latin pretiosus (= costly, valuable) < pretium (= value, worth, price).

precipitate < middle english precipitate < latin praecipitatus, past participle of praecipito [inf. praecipitare] (= throw headlong) < praeceps [gen. praecipitis] (= steep, headlong) < prae (= before) + caput [gen. capitis] (= head).

precise < middle english precise < middle french précis (= condensed, cut short) < medieval latin precisus < latin praecisus, past participle of praecido [inf. praecidere] (= cut off, shorten) < prae (= before) + caedo [inf. caedere] (= to cut).

precocious < latin praecox [gen. praecocis] (= maturing early) < prae (= before) + coquo [inf. coquere] (= to cook, ripen).

prediction < middle french prédiction < medieval latin predictio < latin praedictio (= a foretelling) < praedicatus, past participle of praedico [inf. praedicere] (= foretell, advise) < prae (= before) + dico [inf. dicere] (= to say).

preface < middle english preface < old french preface < medieval latin prefatia < latin praefatio (= fore-speaking, introduction) < praefor [inf. praefari] (= say beforehand) < prae (= before) + for [inf. fari] (= speak).

prefer < middle english prefer < old french preferer < latin praefero [inf. praeferre] (= set before) < prae (= before) + fero [inf. ferre] (= to carry).

pregnant < middle english pregnant < latin praegnans [gen. praegnantis] (= pregnant) < (?) prae (= before) + gnascor [inf. gnasci] (= be born).

prehension < latin prehensio < prehendo [inf. prehendere] (= seize) < prae (= before) + -hendo [inf. -hendere] (= take).

prelude < middle french prélude < medieval latin preludium (= prelude, preliminary) < latin praeludo [inf. praeludere] (= to play beforehand) < prae (= before) + ludo [inf. ludere] (= to play).

premier < middle english premier < middle french premier (= first, chief) < latin primarius (= of the first rank, chief, principal) < primus (= first).

premium < latin praemium (= reward) < prae (= before) + emo [inf. emere] (= buy).

prepare < middle english prepare < middle french preparer < latin praeparo [inf. praeparare] (= make ready beforehand) < prae (= before) + paro [inf. parare] (= make ready).

presbyopia < modern latin presbyopia < ancient greek πρέσβυς | presbhys (= old man, aged) + οψ | ōps [gen. ωπός | opos] (= eye).

presbyter < late latin presbyter (= a priest) < ancient greek πρεσβύτερος | presbhyteros (= older), comparative of πρέσβυς | presbhys (= old, aged).

present < middle english present < old french present < latin praesens [gen. presentis], present participle of præsum [inf. præesse] (= be before, be at hand) < prae (= before) + sum [inf. esse] (= I am).

preserve < middle english preserve < anglo-french preservare / old french preserver < medieval latin preservo [inf. preservare] (= keep, preserve) < late latin praeservo [inf. praeservare] (= guard beforehand) < latin prae (= before) + servo [inf. servare] (= to keep safe).

president < middle english president < old french president < latin praesidens [gen. praesidentis], present participle of praesideo [inf. praesidere] (= stand guard, act as chief) < prae (= before) + sedeo [inf. sedere] (= to sit).

press < middle english press < old french presser (= squeeze) < latin presso [inf. pressare] (= to press) < pressus, past participle of premo [inf. premere] (= to press, cover, compress).

pressure < middle english pressure < old french presseure (= oppression, anguish, press) < latin pressura (= action of pressing) < pressus, past participle of premo [inf. premere] (= to press, cover, compress).

prestigious < latin praestigious (= full of tricks) < praestigiae [plural] (= juggler’s tricks) < (?) praestrigiae < praestringo [inf. praestringere] (= to blind, blindfold) < prae (= before) + stringo [inf. stringere] (= to tie, bind).

presume < middle english presume < old french presumer < latin praesumo [inf. praesumere] (= anticipate, assume) < prae (= before) + sumo [inf. sumere] (= take, obtain, buy) (< sub (= under) + emo [inf. emere] (= take).

pret a porter < french prêt à porter (= ready to wear) < prêt (= ready) (< latin praestus (= ready)) + à (= to, for) (< latin ad (= to)) + porter (= to carry) (< latin porto [inf. portare] (= to carry)).

pretend < middle english pretend < old french pretendre < latin praetendo [inf. praetendere] (= put forward, allege) < prae (= before) + tendo [inf. tendere] (= to stretch).

pretty < old english prættig / pretti (= skillful, artful, wily) < prætt / *prett (= trick, wile, craft) < proto-germanic *pratt-.

prevent < middle english prevent < latin praeventus, past participle of praevenio [inf. praevenire] (= come before, anticipate, prevent) < prae (= before) + venio [inf. venire] (= to come).

previous < latin praevius (= going before) < prae (= before) + via (= road).

price < middle english pris < old french pris (= price, value, reward, honor, fame) < late latin precium < latin pretium (= reward, prize, value).

prick < old english prician (= to prick, pierce, sting) < west germanic *prikojan.

pride < old english pryto / prede / pride (= pride, pomp) < prud < old french prud < prouz (= brave, valiant) < late latin prode (= advantageous) < latin prosum [inf. prodesse] (= be useful) < pro (= before) + sum [inf. esse] (= I am).

priest < old english preost < (?) germanic prestar / prestere < vulgar latin *prester (= priest) < late latin presbyter < ancient greek πρεσβύτερος | presbhyteros (= elder, presbyter), comparative of πρέσβυς | presbhys (= old, aged).

prime < middle english prime < latin primus (= first, chief, principal).

primitive < middle english primitive < old french primitif (= original) < latin primitivus (= first, earliest) < primitus (= at first) < primus (= first, chief, principal).

prince < middle english prince < old french prince (= prince, noble) < latin princeps (= first man, chief leader, ruler) < primus (= first) + capio [inf. capere] (= take, hold).

principle < middle english principle < anglo-french principle / old french principe (= origin, principle) < latin principium (= a beginning, origin) < princeps [gen. principis] (= first man, chief leader, ruler) < primus (= first) + capio [inf. capere] (= take, hold).

print < middle english print < old french preinte (= impression), female past participle of preindre (= to press, crush) < prembre < latin premo [inf. premere] (= to press, cover).

prior < latin prior (= former, previous, first), comparative of old latin pri (= before).

priority < middle english priority < old french priorite < medieval latin prioritas (= fact of being prior) < latin prior (= former, previous, first), comparative of old latin pri (= before).

Priscilla < latin Priscilla, female of Priscillus, a diminutive of Priscus < priscus (= antique, ancient, primitive).

prism < late latin prisma < ancient greek πρίσμα | prisma (= prism, trilateral column) < πρίω | priō (= to saw).

prison < middle english prison < old french prisoun (= captivity, prison, prisoner) < preson < vulgar latin *presio < latin prensio, a shortening of *prehensio (= a taking) < prehendo [inf. prehendere] (= seize) < prae (= before) + -hendo [inf. -hendere] (= take).

prius < latin prius, neuter of prior (= former, previous, first), comparative of old latin pri (= before).

private < middle english private < latin privatus (= set apart, personal) < privatus, past participle of privo [inf. privare] (= to separate) < privus (= individual).

privilege < middle english privilege < old french privilege (= right, priority) < latin privilegium (= law applying to one person, privilege) < privus (= individual) + lex [gen. legis] (= law).

prize < middle english prise < old french prise (= a taking) < prise, female past participle of prendre (= take, seize) < latin prendo [inf. prendere] < prehendo [inf. prehendere] (= seize) < prae (= before) + -hendo [inf. -hendere] (= take).

pro < middle english pro < latin pro (= in place of, before, forth, forward) < I.E. *per-₍₁₎ (= forward).

probable < middle english probable < old french probable (= provable, demonstrable) < latin probabilis (= agreeable, acceptable, provable) < probo [inf. probare] (= show, try, test) < probus (= worthy, good).

probe < middle english probe < medieval latin proba (= examination, test, proof) < latin probo [inf. probare] (= show, try, test) < probus (= worthy, good).

problem < middle english problem < old french problème < latin problema < ancient greek πρόβλημα | probhlēma (= task, problem) < προβάλλω | probhallō (= propose) < προ | pro (= before, forth, forward) + βάλλω | bhallō (= to throw).

proceed < middle english proceden < old french proceder < latin procedo [inf. procedere] (= go forward, make progress) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + cedo [inf. cedere] (= go).

procure < middle english procure < old french procurer (= care for, bring about) < late latin procuro [inf. procurare] (= manage, take care of) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + curo [inf. curare] (= care for).

prodigy < middle english prodigy < latin prodigium (= prophetic sign, omen) < 1. pro (= before, forth, forward) + [suffix] -igium, (?) related to aio (= I say) or 2. pro + dico [inf. dicere] (= say).

prodrome < french prodrome < modern latin prodromus < ancient greek πρόδρομος | prodhromos (= a running forward) < προ | pro (= before, forth, forward) + δρόμος | dhromos (= a running, way, road).

produce < middle english produce < latin producere (= bring forth, draw out) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + duco [inf. ducere] (= bring, lead).

professor < middle english professor < old french professeur < latin professor (= teacher of highest rank) < profiteor [inf. profiteri] (= declare openly, acknowledge) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + fateor [inf. fateri] (= to acknowledge, confess).

proficient < old french proficient < latin proficiens [gen. proficientis], present participle of proficio [inf. proficere] (= make progress, go forward) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + facio [inf. facere] (= make, do).

profile < old italian profilo (= a drawing in outline) < profilare (= to draw in outline) < pro (= forth) (< latin pro (= forward)) + filare (= draw out) (< late latin filo [inf. filare] (= to spin, draw out a line) < latin filum (= thread)).

profit < middle english profit < old french porfit / prufit (= profit, gain) < latin profectus (= profit, advance, progress) < profectus, past participle of proficio [inf. proficere] (= make progress, profit) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + facio [inf. facere] (= make, do).

prognosis < late latin prognosis < ancient greek πρόγνωσις | proghnōsis (= foreknowledge) < προγιγνώσκω | proghighnōskō (= to know beforehand) < προ | pro (= before, forth, forward) + γιγνώκω | ghighnōskō (= to know).

program < late latin programma < ancient greek πρόγραμμα | proghramma (= a written public notice) < προγράφω | proghraphō (= write publicly) < προ | pro (= before, forth, forward) + γράφω | ghraphō (= write, draw).

progress < middle english progress < old french progres < latin progressus (= a going forward) < progressus, past participle of progredior [inf. progredi] (= go forward) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + gradior [inf. gradi] (= to step, walk) (< gradus (= a step)).

prohibit < middle english prohibit < latin prohibitus, past participle of prohibeo [inf. prohibere] (= hold back, restrain) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + habeo [inf. habere] (= hold, have).

project < middle english project < latin projectus, past participle of projicio [inf. projicere] (= throw forth) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + jacio [inf. jacere] (= to throw).

proletarian < latin proletarius (= citizen of the lowest class) < proles [gen. prolitis] (= offspring, progeny).

prologue < middle english prologue < old french prologue < latin prologus < ancient greek πρόλογος | prologhos (= preface to a play, prologue) < προ | pro (= before, forth, forward) + λόγος | loghos (= a speaking) < λέγω | leghō (= speak).

promenade < middle french promenade < se promener (= go for a walk) < late latin promino [inf. prominare] (= drive onward) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + mino [inf. minare] (= drive [animals] with shouts) (< minor [inf. minari] (= threaten)).

prominence < french prominence < latin prominentia (= a jutting out) < late latin promineo [inf. prominere] (= stand out, be prominent) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + mineo [inf. minere] (= project, jut out).

promise < middle english promise < old french promesse (= promise, guarantee) < latin promissum (= a promise) < promissum, neuter past participle of promitto [inf. promittere] (= send forth, let go, promise) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + mitto [inf. mittere] (= send, throw, release).

promote < middle english promote < old french promoter < latin promotus, past participle of promoveo [inf. promovere] (= move forward, advance) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + moveo [inf. movere] (= to move).

prompt < middle english prompten < latin promptus, past participle of promo [inf. promere] (= bring forth) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + emo [inf. emere] (= take).

prone < middle english prone < latin pronus (= leaning forward, bent over) < (?) pro (= before) + [suffix] -nus.

pronounce < middle english pronounce < old french prononcier (= declare, pronounce) < late latin pronuncio [inf. pronunciare] < latin pronuntio [inf. pronuntiare] (= proclaim, pronounce) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + nuntio [inf. nuntiare] (= announce) (< nuntius (= messenger)).

proof < middle english preove < anglo-french preove / old french prueve (= proof, experience) < late latin proba (= a proof) < latin probo [inf. probare] (= show, try, test, prove) < probus (= worthy, good).

propaganda < latin [Congregatio de] Propaganda [Fide] (= [congregation for] propagating [the faith]), a committee of cardinals for foreign missions < propaganda, ablative of female gerundive of propago [inf. propagare] (= set forward, extend, increase) < propago (= offspring) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + I.E. *pag- (= to fasten).

propagate < latin propagatus, past participle of propago [inf. propagare] (= set forward, extend, increase) < propago (= offspring) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + I.E. *pag- (= to fasten).

propane < prop- {< propionic [acid] < french propionique < ancient greek προ | pro (= forward) + πίων | piōn (= fat, fatty) [so called because, in the chemical order, it is before the “fatty” acid, butanoic (< ancient greek βούτυρον | bhoutyron (= butter))]} + [suffix] -ane.

propel < middle english propel < latin propello [inf. propellere] (= push forward, drive forth) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + pello [inf. pellere] (= push, drive).

proper < middle english proper < old french propre (= own, particular, appropriate) < latin proprius (= particular to itself) < pro privo (= in particular) < pro (= for) + privo, ablative of privus (= individual).

prophet < middle english prophet < old french prophete / profete < latin propheta < ancient greek προφήτης | prophētēs (= prophet, interpreter) < προ | pro (= before, forth, forward) + φημί | phēmi (= tell).

prophylactic < middle french prophylactique < ancient greek προφυλακτικός | prophylaktikos (= precautionary) < προφυλάσσω | prophylassō (= keep guard before) < προ | pro (= before, forth, forward) + φυλάσσω | phylassō (= watch over, guard) (< φύλαξ | phylax (= guard)).

propose < middle english propose < old french proposer (= propose, suggest) < pro (= forth) (< latin pro (= before, forth)) + poser (= put, place) (< late latin pauso [inf. pausare] (= to halt, pause) < pausa (= a halt, stop) < ancient greek παύσις | pafsis (= a stopping) < παύω | pavō (= to stop, pause)).

prosciutto < italian prosciutto [(?) by influence of prosciugato (= dried)] < presciutto < pre- (< latin prae (= before)) + latin exsuctus, past participle of exsugo [inf. exsugere] (= suck out) (< ex (= out) + sugo [inf. sugere] (= to suck)).

prose < middle english prose < old french prose < latin prosa [oratio] (= direct [speech]) < prosa, female of prosus < prorsus (= straightforward, direct) < old latin provorsus (= of straight ahead) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + vorsus, past participle of verto [inf. vertere] (= to turn).

prosecute < middle english prosecute < latin prosecutus, past participle of prosequor [inf. prosequi] (= follow after, accompany, chase) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + sequor [inf. sequi] (= follow).

prospect < middle english prospect < latin prospectus (= distant view, sight) < prospectus, past participle of prospicio [inf. prospicere] (= look forward) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + specio [inf. specere] (= look at).

prosper < middle english prosper < old french prosperer < latin prospero [inf. prosperare] (= cause to succeed, render happy) < prosperus (= favorable, fortunate) < old latin pro spere (= according to expectation) < pro (= for) + spere, ablative of spes [gen. speris] (= hope).

prostate < middle french prostate < medieval latin prostata < ancient greek προστάτης [αδήν] | prostatēs [adhēn] (= prostate [gland]) [so called from its position in front of the bladder] < προστάτης | prostatēs (= leader, guardian) < προΐσταμαι | proistamae (= set before) < προ | pro (= before, forth, forward) + ‘ίσταμαι | ^histamae (= to stand).

prostitute < latin prostitutus, past participle of prostituo [inf. prostituere] (= expose publicly) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + statuo [inf. statuere] (= cause to stand, establish).

prostrate < middle english prostrate < latin prostratus, past participle of prosterno [inf. prosternere] (= strew in front, throw down) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + sterno [inf. sternere] (= spread out, lay down).

protagonist < ancient greek πρωταγωνιστής | prōtaghōnistēs (= chief actor) < πρώτος | prōtos (= first) + αγωνιστής | aghōnistēs (= competitor, actor) (< αγών | aghōn (= contest)).

protection < middle english protection < old french proteccion < late latin protectio (= a covering over) < latin protego [inf. protegere] (= protect, cover in front) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + tego [inf. tegere] (= to cover).

protein < french protéine < ancient greek πρώτειος | prōtoeos (= of the first [quality]) < πρώτος | prōtos (= first) + [suffix] -ine.

protest < middle english protest < old french protest < protester < latin protestor [inf. protestari] (= declare publicly, protest) < pro- (= before, forth, forward) + testor [inf. testari] (= testify) (< testis (= witness)).

proto- < ancient greek πρώτος | prōtos (= first).

protocol < prothogall < middle french prothocole < medieval latin protocollum (= draft) < ancient greek πρωτόκολλον | prōtokollon (= first glued sheet) [on a manuscript, having the list of its contents and errata] < πρώτος | prōtos (= first) + κόλλα | kolla (= glue).

proud < old english prud / prute (= excellent, splendid) < (?) old french prud < prouz (= brave, valiant) < late latin prode (= advantageous) < latin prosum [inf. prodesse] (= be useful) < pro (= before) + sum [inf. esse] (= I am).

prove < middle english pruven / proven < old french prover / pruver (= show, convince, put to the test) < latin probo [inf. probare] (= show, try, test, prove) < probus (= worthy, good).

provenance < french provenance (= origin, production) < middle french provenant, present participle of provenir (= come forth, arise) < latin provenio [inf. provenire] (= come forth, originate, arise) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + venio [inf. venire] (= come).

proverb < middle english proverb < old french proverbe < latin proverbium (= a common saying, old adage) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + verbum (= word).

provide < middle english provide < latin provideo [inf. providere] (= look ahead, prepare, supply) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + video [inf. videre] (= see).

providence < middle english providence < old french providence < latin providentia (= foresight, precaution) < providens [gen. providentis], present participle of provideo [inf. providere] (= look ahead, prepare, supply) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + video [inf. videre] (= see).

province < middle english province < old french province < latin provincia (= Roman territory outside Italy, province) < (?) pro (= before, forth, forward) + vinco [inf. vincere] (= conquer).

provoke < middle english provoke < old french provoker / provochier < latin provoco [inf. provocare] (= call forth, challenge) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + voco [inf. vocare] (= to call).

proximate < late latin proximatus, past participle of proximo [inf. proximare] (= draw near) < proximus (= nearest, latest), superlative of prope (= near).

prudent < middle english prudent < old french prudent (= with knowledge, deliberate) < latin prudens [gen. prudentis] (= knowing, skilled) < providens, present participle of provideo [inf. providere] (= look ahead, prepare, supply) < pro (= before, forth, forward) + video [inf. videre] (= see).

prune < middle english prouyne < old french proignier (= cut back, prune).

Prussia < medieval latin Borussi / Prusi, a Lithuanian people < (?) slavic *Po-Rus (= near the Russians).

P.S. < an abbreviation of latin post scriptum (= after the script) < post (= after) + scriptum (= script).

psalm < old english psealm, salm / old french psaume, saume / latin psalmus < ancient greek ψαλμός | psalmos (= song sung to a harp) < ψάλλω | psallō (= play on a stringed instrument).

pseudonym < german pseudonym / french pseudonyme < ancient greek ψευδώνυμος | pseudhōnymos (= having a false name) < ψευδής | pseudhēs (= false) + όνυμα | onyma (= name).

psyche < latin psyche < ancient greek ψυχή | psykhē (= soul, mind, spirit).

psychedelic < psychodelic [1956] < ancient greek ψυχή | psykhē (= soul, mind, spirit) + δηλώ | dhēlō (= make visible, reveal) | δήλος | dhēlos (= visible, clear).

psychiatry < french psychiatrie < medieval latin psychiatria (= a healing of the soul) < ancient greek ψυχή | psykhē (= soul, mind, spirit) + ιατρεία | iatroea (= a healing, care) (< ιατρεύω | iatrevō (= heal) < ιατρός | iatros (= doctor) < ιώμαι | iōmae (= heal, care)).

psychology < modern latin psychologia < ancient greek ψυχή | psykhē (= soul, mind, spirit) + -λογία | -loghia (= study) (< λόγος | loghos (= a speaking) < λέγω | leghō (= speak)).

pub < a shortening of public [house] (= any public building / inn selling food, wine, and spirits / tavern) < middle english public (q.v.).

public < middle english public < old french public < latin publicus (= of the people, of the state, common) [(?) by influence of latin pubes (= adult)] < old latin poplicus (= of the people) < populus (= people).

pudding < middle english pudding < (?) west germanic *pud- (= to swell) + [suffix] -ing.

pueblo (= Indian village) < spanish pueblo (= village, small town, people) < latin populus (= people).

Puerto Rico < spanish Puerto Rico (= rich harbor) < puerto (< latin portus (= harbor, port)) + rico (< old french riche (= wealthy) < frankish *riki (= powerful)).

puff < old english pyffan (= blow with the mouth) < imitative origin.

pull < middle english pull < old english pullian (= pluck off, draw out).

pullman < Pullman [car] < [George] Pullman, American engineer.

pullover < pullover [sweater] < pull + over [so called for the method of putting on].

pulp < middle english pulp < latin pulpa (= pulp, pith of wood).

pulse < middle english pulse < old french pous / pulse < latin pulsus, past participle of pello [inf. pellere] (= push, drive).

pulverize < middle english pulverize < late latin pulverizo [inf. pulverizare] (= reduce to powder) < latin pulvis [gen. pulveris] (= powder, dust).

puma < spanish puma < quechua (of Inca) puma.

pump < middle english pump < (?) middle dutch pompe (= water conduit, pipe) / middle low german pumpe (= pump) < (?) imitative origin.

pumpkin < pompone / pumpion (= melon, pumpkin) < middle french pompon < latin pepo [gen. peponis] (= melon) < ancient greek πέπων | pepōn (= melon).

punch (= fist) < middle english punch (= thrust, push) < old french ponchonner (= to punch, prick) < ponchon / poinchon (= pointed tool, piercing weapon) < vulgar latin *punctio (= pointed tool) < latin pungo [inf. pungere] (= to prick, pierce).

punch (= pointed tool) < middle english punch < puncheon < old french ponchon / poinchon (= pointed tool, piercing weapon) < vulgar latin *punctio (= pointed tool) < latin pungo [inf. pungere] (= to prick, pierce).

punch (type of mixed drink) < (?) hindi panch (= five) [in reference to its five ingredients] < sanskrit panchan-s < pancha (= five) < I.E. *penkwe- (= five).

punctuate < medieval latin punctuatus, past participle of punctuo [inf. punctuare] (= point out) < latin punctus, past participle of pungo [inf. pungere] (= to prick, pierce).

punish < middle english punish < old french punir (= punish) < latin punio [inf. punire] (= punish, correct) < poenio [inf. poenire] < poena (= penalty, punishment) < ancient greek ποινή | poenē (= penalty, punishment).

Punjab < hindi Panjab < persian panj (= five) (< I.E. *penkwe- (= five)) + ab (= water) (< iranian *ap- < I.E. *ap-₍₂₎ (= water)) [in reference to the five rivers of this region].

punk < (?) 1. algonquian ponk (= dust, powder, ashes) or 2. gaelic spong (= tinder).

pupil < middle english pupil (= orphan child, ward) < old french pupille < latin pupillus (= orphan child, ward), a diminutive of pupus (= boy).

puppet < middle english popet (= doll) < old french popette (= little doll, puppet), a diminutive of popee (= doll) < vulgar latin *puppa < latin pupa (= girl, doll), female of pupus (= boy).

puppy < middle english puppy < (?) middle french poupée (= doll, toy) < vulgar latin *puppa < latin pupa (= girl, doll), female of pupus (= boy).

purchase < middle english purchase < anglo-french purchaser / old french porchacier (= search for) < pur- (= forth) (< vulgar latin *por- < latin pro (= before, forth)) + chacier (= chase) (< vulgar latin *captio [inf. captiare] (= chase) < latin capto [inf. captare] (= hold) < capio [inf. capere] (= take, hold)).

pure < middle english pure < old french pur (= pure, simple) < latin purus (= clean, clear, unmixed).

purge < middle english purge < anglo-french purger / old french purgier (= wash, clean, purify) < latin purgo [inf. purgare] (= make clean, purify) (< old latin purigo [inf. purigare] < purus (= clean, clear)) + ago [inf. agere] (= drive, lead, act).

purify < middle english purify < old french purefier (= purify, refine) < latin purifico [inf. purificare] (= make pure) < purus (= clean, clear) + facio [inf. facere] (= make, do).

puritan < Puritan (= opponent of Anglican hierarchy) < middle english purity < old french purete < latin puritas (= pureness) < purus (= clean, clear, unmixed).

purple < old english purpul < purpure(n) (= purple) < latin purpura (= purple color) < ancient greek πορφύρα | porphyra (= purple dye, the shellfish murex from which purple was made) < (?) semitic origin.

purpose < middle english purpose < anglo-french purpos / old french porpos (= aim, intention) < porposer (= put forth) < por- (= forth) (< latin pro (= before, forth) + poser (= put, place) (< late latin pauso [inf. pausare] (= to halt, pause) < pausa (= a halt, stop) < ancient greek παύσις | pafsis (= a stopping) < παύω | pavō (= to stop, pause)).

purse < old english pursa < medieval latin bursa (= leather purse) < late latin bursa < byrsa (= hide) < ancient greek βύρσα | bhyrsa (= hide, leather).

pursue < middle english pursue < anglo-french pursuer < old french poursuir < porsivre (= to chase, pursue, follow) < vulgar latin *prosequo [inf. prosequare] < latin prosequor [inf. prosequi] (= follow, accompany) < pro (= before, forward) + sequor [inf. sequi] (= follow).

purvey < middle english purvey < anglo-french porveire / purveire < old french porveoir (= provide, prepare) < latin provideo [inf. providere] (= look ahead, prepare, supply) < pro (= before, forth) + video [inf. videre] (= see).

push < middle english push < old french poulser < latin pulso [inf. pulsare] (= to beat, push) < pulsus, past participle of pello [inf. pellere] (= push, drive, beat).

puss (= cat) < (?) imitative origin [from the sound used to get its attention].

put < old english *putian (= to put) < (?) germanic source.

puzzle < pusle (= bewilder, confound) < (?) pose < middle french poser (= suppose, assume) < old french poser (= to put, place, set) < late latin pauso [inf. pausare] (= to halt, pause) < pausa (= a halt, stop) < ancient greek παύσις | pafsis (= a stopping) < παύω | pavō (= to stop, pause).

pvc < an acronym of polyvinyl chloride [1933].

pyjamas < pajama(h)s / pai jamahs < hindi pajama < (?) persian paejamah (= leg clothing) < pae (= leg) + jamah (= clothing).

Pyongyang < korean Pyongyang < p’yong (= flat) + yang (= land).

pyramid < french pyramide < latin pyramides, plural of pyramis < ancient greek πυραμίδες | pyramidhes, plural of πυραμίς | pyramis (= pyramid) < (?) egyptian pimar (= pyramid).

Pyrenees < french Pyrénées < latin Pyrenæi < ancient greek Πυρήνη | Pyrēnē, a mistress of Hercules, buried in these mountains.

pyretic < french pyrétique / modern latin pyreticus < ancient greek πυρετός | pyretos (= fever, burning heat) < πυρ | pyr (= fire) < I.E. *paewr- (= fire).

pyrite < old french pyrite < latin pyrites < ancient greek πυρίτης [λίθος] | pyritēs [lithos] (= [stone] of fire, flint) [so called because it glitters when it is hit] < πυρίτης | pyritēs (= of fire) < πυρ | pyr (= fire) < I.E. *paewr- (= fire).

pyrotechnic < πυρ | pyr (= fire) + ancient greek τεχνικός | tekhnikos (= made by art) (< τέχνη | tekhnē (= art)).

python < latin Python < ancient greek Πύθων | Pythōn [a big serpent killed by god Apollo in the oracle of Delphi], related to 1. Πυθώ | Pythō [old name of Delphi] and 2. Πυθία | Pythia [the priestess of god Apollo in Delphi].