1. Old French "nouvelles":
* The word "news" is derived from the Old French word "nouvelles," which meant "new things" or "recent events."
2. Middle English "newes":
* "Nouvelles" was borrowed into Middle English as "newes," which was initially used as a plural noun, referring to multiple pieces of news.
3. Modern English "news":
* Over time, "newes" evolved into the singular noun "news," which we use today. This shift occurred in the 16th century, reflecting the consolidation of information into a single entity.
4. Etymological connection to "novel":
* Interestingly, "news" and "novel" share a common etymological root, both stemming from the Latin "novus," meaning "new." This highlights the inherent connection between new information and the concept of novelty.
Therefore, the word "news" ultimately traces back to the Old French "nouvelles," meaning "new things," and has evolved over time to become the singular noun we use today, encapsulating the concept of current events and information.