What does the root word cast mean?

The root word "cast" comes from the Old English word "cēast", meaning "to throw" or "to hurl".

It has evolved to have several related meanings, including:

* To throw or fling: This is the original and most basic meaning.

* To mold or shape: This relates to the idea of pouring a liquid into a mold to form a shape, like casting metal.

* To assign a role: This refers to assigning actors to roles in a play or film.

* To shed or remove: This meaning comes from the idea of casting off skin, like a snake.

So, the root word "cast" carries the fundamental idea of launching, shaping, or removing something.