The spelling of "delivered up" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription as /dɪˈlɪvəd ʌp/. The first syllable "dɪ" is pronounced as "di" with a short "i" sound. The second syllable "lɪv" is pronounced as "liv" with a short "i" sound as well. The third syllable "əd" is pronounced as "uhd" with a short "uh" sound. Finally, "ʌp" is pronounced as "up". Together, these syllables form the word "delivered up", meaning to surrender or yield something to someone else.
The phrase "delivered up" refers to the act of surrendering, handing over, or transferring someone or something to another party or authority. It commonly implies relinquishing control or ownership of a person, item, or situation.
In a legal context, "delivered up" often pertains to the act of surrendering a suspect or criminal offender to the authorities. It signifies the moment when an individual is transferred from the custody of one party (e.g., the police, a private citizen) to another party (e.g., a judge, a court). This is typically done to ensure that the person is placed in official custody for legal processing.
In a broader sense, "delivered up" can also refer to the act of surrendering or submitting oneself to a higher power, fate, or destiny. It highlights the acceptance of one's circumstances or the acknowledgment that one is subject to external forces beyond their control.
Furthermore, the phrase can be used in situations where something is given or turned over to someone or something else, such as delivering a package or transferring ownership of goods. It embodies the act of fulfilling an obligation or duty to transport or transmit an item from one location or individual to another.
Overall, "delivered up" denotes the act of surrender, transfer, or submission in various contexts, encompassing legal procedures, personal acceptance, and the exchange of goods.
The phrase "delivered up" is not a single word with a distinct etymology. Instead, it is a combination of two separate words that each have their own origins.
1. "Delivered":
The word "delivered" comes from the Old French word "delivrer", which derives from the Latin word "deliberare", meaning "to set free" or "to release". This Latin term consists of "de-" (meaning "out") and "liberare" (meaning "to free"). Over time, "delivered" evolved to mean "to hand over" or "to transfer something to someone".
2. "Up":
The word "up" is an English adverb that has been inherited from Old English. It dates back to the late 8th century and can be traced to the Germanic root "op", which means "up" or "over".