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How do you find etymology for a given word?

There are many ways to find the etymology of a word, depending on your resources and the level of detail you need:

1. Online Etymology Dictionaries:

* Online Etymology Dictionary (OED): This is the most comprehensive and well-respected online dictionary for etymology. It has entries for a vast number of words, tracing their origins back to their earliest known forms. [https://www.etymonline.com/](https://www.etymonline.com/)

* Merriam-Webster Dictionary: The Merriam-Webster website also provides etymology information for many words. You can access it by searching for the word and then clicking on the "Etymology" tab. [https://www.merriam-webster.com/](https://www.merriam-webster.com/)

* Oxford English Dictionary (OED): The OED is a massive dictionary that includes detailed etymological information, but it requires a subscription. However, you can access a free trial or use its search function on the website to find specific entries. [https://www.oed.com/](https://www.oed.com/)

2. Etymological Databases:

* Wiktionary: This collaborative online dictionary provides etymology information for many words, though it can be less comprehensive than OED or Merriam-Webster. [https://en.wiktionary.org/](https://en.wiktionary.org/)

* The American Heritage Dictionary: This dictionary also provides detailed etymological information for many words. [https://www.ahdictionary.com/](https://www.ahdictionary.com/)

3. Specialized Etymology Resources:

* Etymonline: A dedicated site focused specifically on etymology, with a searchable database and articles about language history. [https://www.etymonline.com/](https://www.etymonline.com/)

* The Oxford English Dictionary Online (OED Online): This website provides access to the full text of the OED, including its comprehensive etymological information.

4. Books and Textbooks:

* The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language: This comprehensive dictionary includes detailed etymological information for many words.

* The Oxford English Dictionary: This is the definitive dictionary of the English language, with an extensive history of word origins.

* A History of the English Language: This textbook by Albert C. Baugh and Thomas Cable provides a comprehensive overview of the development of the English language, including its etymology.

Tips for Finding Etymology:

* Consider the word's history: When searching for etymology, try to consider the word's history. For example, if the word is of Latin origin, you may want to search for it in a Latin dictionary.

* Use different sources: Don't rely on just one source for etymology information. Compare the information from different sources to get a more complete picture.

* Look for cognates: Cognates are words that have a common ancestor. If you can find a cognate in another language, it can help you understand the word's origin.

* Be patient: Etymology can be a complex subject, and it may take some time to find the information you are looking for.

By following these tips and using the resources listed above, you can find the etymology of a word and learn more about its history and origins.

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