English, as a separate language, came into being much later in history. Modern English evolved from the Germanic group of languages and went through many changes in the process. The language that we speak today is not ‘pure English’ but a mixture of various languages, given the masculine nature that it has. There are various “loanwords” and borrowings and you wouldn’t even know when you speak a foreign word as they have blended so well with English.
Here’s a list of words that you thought were of your go-to language but actually aren’t:
1. Gift
The word ‘gift’ is actually an evolved version of the Scandinavian word ‘yift’ which meant present.
2. Scientist
This is originated from the Latin word ‘scientia’, coined by William Whewell in 1835.
3. Cashier
Having its roots in the middle Dutch word ‘cassier’, this isn’t a original English word as well.
4. Chemistry
Borrowed from the ancient Egyptian word ‘khemia’, meaning transmutation of earth.
5. Cobra
It is a shortening of the Portuguese word “cobra-de-capelo” which literally means “snake with a hood.
6. Tornado
Came into the language from Spain, the original word being ‘tornada’.
7. Boycott
The word ‘boycott’ is actually a loanword from Irish, with its meaning remaining unchanged.
8. Dance
Believe it or not, ‘dance’ is actually a French word.
9. Prayer
Due to the Norman conquest in Britain, the French words gained more power in the country. The list of French loanwords is endless. You can check it out here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_English_words_of_French_origin
10. Jungle
This word has its origin in the Hindi word ‘jangal’ and the Sanskrit word ‘jangala’, which means ‘arid’.
Last Updated on by somya909