Etymonline: An Online Etymology Dictionary
The Online Etymology Dictionary, created by Douglas Harper in 2001, explores the history and meanings of words. It aims to connect users with the past and provide insights into the evolution of language. Talia Felix has been serving as the associate editor since 2021.
- ▪The dictionary was established in 2001 and has been continuously updated.
- ▪Etymonline focuses on the historical meanings and pronunciations of words.
- ▪Talia Felix joined as associate editor in 2021.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
This is a map of the wheel-ruts of modern English. Etymologies are not definitions; they are explanations of what words meant and how they sounded 600 or 2,000 years ago.The Online Etymology Dictionary was created in 2001 by Douglas Harper, who continues it; the etymonline domain name dates from 2003. Talia Felix, an independent researcher, has been associate editor since 2021.Etymonline aims to weave together words and the past, answer common questions, and sow seeds of serendipity. Print sources used in this compilation are listed here. The user's manual is here.[updated April 7, 2025]
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Etymonline.