Origin of the word news
The word "news" has a long and fascinating history. The modern English word "news" comes from the Old English word "nōwes", which was derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*naujiz", meaning "new" or "fresh".
The Proto-Germanic word is thought to have been derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "*neu-", which also meant "new" or "fresh". This root is also the source of many other English words related to newness, such as "new", "novel", and "novelty".
In Old English, the word "nōwes" referred to new or recent events, and was often used in the phrase "nōwes tidings", which meant "new tidings" or "new news". This phrase was used to describe the latest information or rumors about important events, such as battles, royal marriages, or other significant happenings.
Over time, the spelling of the word "nōwes" evolved into "news", and its meaning expanded to include not just new events, but also information about current events, politics, and social issues. The word "news" has been used in English since the 14th century, and has become a central part of modern communication and journalism.
Here's a brief timeline of the evolution of the word "news":
- Proto-Indo-European: "*neu-" (meaning "new" or "fresh")
- Proto-Germanic: "*naujiz" (meaning "new" or "fresh")
- Old English: "nōwes" (meaning "new" or "recent events")
- Middle English: "news" (meaning "new events" or "current information")
- Modern English: "news" (meaning "information about current events, politics, and social issues")
I hope that helps!