When reading older literature, some words or phrases may not be clear. Language is constantly evolving, and many words that are commonly used in the 21st century had entirely different meanings in the past. Here are some fascinating examples of words that have changed significantly over time.
Awful
The word has a negative connotation in modern usage, with synonyms like terrible, horrible and bad. However, in the 1300s, it had a different meaning; it referred to something that inspired awe. Therefore, something could be described as awful when it was worthy of admiration, such as a beautiful cathedral or breathtaking scenery.
Nice
The word is commonly used today to describe the characteristics of others positively. However, when it was first adopted into the English language in the 1300s, its connotation was far less friendly. The term originates from the Latin word nescius, meaning ignorant, which made it an unfriendly insult at the time. Therefore, to describe someone as nice was not meant as a compliment; instead, it was a way to mock their foolishness and silliness.
Artificial
In today’s world, the term artificial often leads people to think of something fake or unnatural. However, the word comes from the Latin term artificialis, which was used in the late 14th century to describe items that were the result of skilled craftsmanship.
Naughty
The term is widely used today to describe a child who engages in improper or mischievous behaviour, suggesting disobedience or bad conduct. However, its origins are quite different. The word comes from the Old English term nawiht, which means nothing or not anything. Originally, naughty referred to someone who had nothing. By the 14th century, it evolved to describe a person who was evil and corrupt.
Villain
The term is commonly understood today as the antagonist or a morally corrupt character in a story, carrying a strong negative connotation and often used to describe someone wicked or evil. However, its origin comes from the Latin word villanus, meaning a farmhand or a person who lives on a farm.
Myriad
The word is now commonly used to describe a vast, indefinite number, as in phrases like “a myriad of words” or “a myriad of choices”. However, its original meaning was much more specific. First coined by the ancient Greeks and later adopted into both French and English in the mid-16th century, myriad originally referred explicitly to the number 10,000. Over time, its usage broadened to signify an abundance or multitude of something, which is how it is understood today.
Fantastic
The word is often used to describe something extraordinary or impressive. However, it can also refer to things that are unreal or exist only in the imagination – this is also its original definition. For example, fables and fairy tales frequently feature fantastic creatures, such as unicorns or talking animals.
Brave
A brave person is often thought of as fearless and courageous. However, the origins of the word reveal a more nuanced meaning. It is derived from Middle French and ultimately comes from the Italian word bravo, which may have originally meant wild or savage.
