The Curious Origin of the Words ‘Friend’ and ‘Friendship’

 

By Dr Oliver Tearle

The origin of the word ‘friend’ – and the noun ‘friendship’ which is formed from it – lies in the mists of time, although the first recorded use of ‘friend’ is in one of the classic works of English literature. Let’s take a closer look at the etymology and history of ‘friend’ and ‘friendship’. Continue reading “The Curious Origin of the Words ‘Friend’ and ‘Friendship’”

The Curious Origin of the Word ‘Female’

 

By Dr Oliver Tearle

What connects the word ‘female’ with ‘male’, etymologically speaking? How did these corresponding terms come about? The origins of the word ‘female’ are worthy of further inspection, because, as ever on this blog, there are some surprising facts to uncover in the etymology and history of ‘female’. Continue reading “The Curious Origin of the Word ‘Female’”