The spelling of "etymological dictionary" may seem complicated, but it can be broken down into smaller parts. "Etymological" is pronounced /ˌɛtɪməˈlɒdʒɪkəl/, with the stress on the second syllable. The prefix "etymo-" means "origin" or "true sense," and "-logical" refers to the study or knowledge of something. "Dictionary" is pronounced /ˈdɪkʃənəri/, with the stress on the first syllable. It comes from the Latin word "dictio," meaning "word," and means a collection of words with definitions. Together, these words make up a reference book that explains the origin and meaning of words.
An etymological dictionary is a reference work that focuses specifically on the origins and historical development of words in a particular language or languages. It provides detailed information about the etymology, which is the study of the origin and historical development of words, of various terms.
These dictionaries typically present words in alphabetical order and include extensive entries that provide etymological explanations, as well as historical information about the language or languages in question. They aim to trace the origins of words, identifying their root forms, and highlighting the influences from other languages that have shaped their meanings and forms over time.
Etymological dictionaries often include information about the phonetic changes that have occurred in a word's evolution, as well as its semantic shifts and borrowings from other languages. They can also provide examples of how a word has been used throughout history, offering insights into its changing connotations and applications.
Overall, an etymological dictionary is a valuable tool for scholars, linguists, and language enthusiasts who seek to deepen their understanding of words and their historical backgrounds. By tracing the origins of words, these dictionaries facilitate a deeper appreciation of language and its connections to various cultures and historical periods.
The word "etymological" is derived from the Greek term "etumologia", which is a combination of two Greek words: "etumon" meaning "true sense" or "original meaning", and "logia" meaning "study" or "science". "Etumon" is in turn derived from the Greek word "etes" meaning "truth", while "logia" comes from "logos" meaning "word" or "study".
The word "dictionary" originates from the Latin term "dictionarium", which denotes a collection of words or terms. It is based on the Latin word "dictio" meaning "word" or "speech", derived from the verb "dicere" meaning "to speak" or "to say".