Where did the word mission come from?

The word "mission" has its roots in Latin, specifically the word "missio", meaning "a sending" or "dispatch".

Here's a breakdown of its history:

* Latin "missio": Originally, this word referred to the act of sending someone on a task or journey. It could be used for sending an ambassador, a soldier, or even a messenger.

* Medieval Latin: The word "mission" evolved into "missio" in medieval Latin, and it was used to refer to a sending of missionaries to spread Christianity.

* English: The word "mission" entered the English language in the 14th century, first with the religious meaning of a sending of missionaries.

Over time, the word "mission" has broadened its meaning to include:

* A task or assignment: "I have a mission to complete before the end of the day."

* A goal or purpose: "The company's mission is to improve the lives of its customers."

* A place where missionaries work: "The mission provided food and shelter to the local people."

So, the word "mission" has its origins in the simple act of sending someone on a task, but it has developed a rich history and a variety of meanings through the centuries.