Latin Roots:
* "signum": The core of the word comes from the Latin noun "signum," meaning "sign, mark, or token." This emphasizes the idea of something used to convey information or communicate a message.
Medieval Latin and French:
* "signālum": "Signum" evolved into the medieval Latin term "signālum," which further reinforced the concept of a signal as a distinct and noticeable sign.
* "signal": This Latin form eventually made its way into Old French as "signal," where it maintained its core meaning of a sign or token.
English Adoption:
* "signal": The English word "signal" was adopted from Old French in the 14th century. It retained the meaning of a visible or audible sign used for communication.
Evolution of Meaning:
* Broadened scope: Over time, the word "signal" expanded its meaning beyond simple signs. It started to encompass more complex systems of communication, including flags, lights, sounds, and electronic signals.
* Modern usage: Today, "signal" encompasses a wide array of applications, from traffic signals to electronic signals in technology, highlighting its evolution from a basic sign to a sophisticated communication tool.
Therefore, the origin of the English word "signal" can be traced back to the Latin word "signum," meaning "sign," and its journey through medieval Latin and French before being adopted into English with a rich and diverse range of meanings.