* Old English "tor": The word "tor" is directly derived from the Old English word "tor," which meant "peak," "hill," or "high ground." This suggests its origins are in the Germanic languages.
* Possible Indo-European connection: Some linguists believe that the Old English "tor" is related to the Proto-Indo-European root *tʰer-, meaning "to rise" or "to be high."
* Other related terms: The word "tor" is also related to other words in the Germanic languages:
* German "Turm": Meaning "tower"
* Dutch "toren": Meaning "tower"
* Scandinavian "tarn": Meaning "hill"
In summary: While a specific root word for "tor" is not readily available, it appears to have evolved from Old English, ultimately possibly stemming from a Proto-Indo-European root related to the concept of "highness" or "elevation."