* Various: This word comes from the Latin "varius", meaning "different" or "diverse". It entered English in the 14th century.
* Sundry: This word originates from the Old English "sundrie", meaning "separate" or "individual". It has been part of the English language for centuries.
The phrase likely arose as a way to emphasize the diversity of things being referred to. While "various" implies a broad range of items, "sundry" adds a layer of individuality and distinctness.
Here's a breakdown of the evolution of the phrase:
1. Old English: The phrase likely emerged as a combination of "sundrie" and "and" or "and eac" (and also).
2. Middle English: The phrase transitioned to "diverse and sundry" around the 14th century.
3. Modern English: By the 16th century, the phrase became "various and sundry," reflecting the evolving vocabulary of the language.
"Various and sundry" is often used in legal documents and formal contexts to describe a wide range of items or individuals. It's synonymous with phrases like "diverse and sundry" and "miscellaneous". While it might sound archaic, it remains a useful expression to convey a sense of comprehensiveness.