What is the English origin of word knowledge?

The English word "knowledge" has its roots in Old English and is ultimately derived from Proto-Germanic.

Here's the breakdown:

* Old English: *cnawan* (to know)

* Proto-Germanic: *knawan* (to know)

The word "knowledge" itself is a later development, formed by combining the noun *cnawan* with the suffix "-ledge", which indicates "state of" or "quality of".

Interestingly, the word "know" itself is also directly derived from the Old English *cnawan*. This shared root highlights the close connection between the concepts of "knowing" and "knowledge".