Self same, spelled as /self seɪm/, is an archaic term used to refer to something that is identical to itself. The word originated in Middle English from the Old English "selfsam," where "self" means "same" and "sam" means "together." Today, the term is rarely used in everyday language, but it can still be found in literature and religious texts. The spelling of "self same" is straightforward, with the word "self" and the word "same" combined, giving room for a pause between the two words.
Self same is a phrase used to describe something that is exactly the same as another thing, without any difference or variation. It conveys the idea that the object or idea being referred to is identical or indistinguishable from another mentioned object or idea. The term "self same" is more formal and archaic in usage compared to the modern word "same," which is often used in everyday conversation.
The term self same can be used to describe a variety of entities, such as physical objects, concepts, or characteristics. For example, if two physical objects are said to be self same, it means they have identical features and qualities without any variation. Similarly, when used in relation to concepts or characteristics, it implies that they share exact similarities or traits, leaving no room for differences.
The phrase self same is often employed in literature, poetry, or religious texts to emphasize the importance of similarity, equality, or unity. It underscores the notion that two things are so alike that they occupy the same position or have the same essence. Furthermore, the phrase can also be used rhetorically to express emphasis or reinforce a point by emphasizing the absolute identity or sameness of two entities.
In summary, "self same" is a form of linguistic expression highlighting the complete similarity or identical nature between two objects, concepts, or characteristics, without any variation or difference.
The word "selfsame" originated from the combination of two Old English words: "self" (meaning "the same") and "same" (meaning "unchanged" or "identical"). "Self" comes from the Proto-Germanic word "selbaz", which means "so, by itself, in itself". The word "same" has its roots in the Old Norse word "samr" and the Proto-Germanic word "samaz", both of which convey the meaning of "same" or "together". Over time, these words merged in Old English to form "selfsame", which has been in usage since the 14th century.