One of the most interesting of all studies is the study of words and word origins. Each language is【1】of several earlier languages, and the words of a language can sometimes be traced【2】through two or three different languages to their【3】Again, a word from one language may pass into other languages and【4】a new meaning. The word “etiquette“, which is【5】French origin and originally meant a label,【6】a sign, passed into Spanish and kept its original meaning. So in Spanish the word “etiquette“ today is used to【7】the small tags which a store【8】to a suit, a dress or a bottle. The word “etiquette“ in French,【9】, gradually developed a different meaning. It【10】became the custom to write directions on small cards or “etiquette“ as to how visitors should dress themselves and【11】during an important ceremony at the royal court.【12】, the word “etiquette“ began to indicate a system of correct manners for people to follow.【13】this meaning, the word passed into English.
Consider the word “breakfast“. “To fast“ is to go for some period of time without【14】. Thus, in the morning, after many hours【15】the night without food, one【16】one’s fast.
Consider the everyday English【17】“Good-bye“. Many years ago, people would say to each other【18】parting: “God be with you.“ As this was【19】over and over millions of times, it gradually became【20】to “good-bye“.
