Old English Roots:
* The word "can" originated from the Old English word "cunnan," which meant "to know" or "to be able."
* This was a verb that reflected both knowledge and ability.
Middle English Transition:
* By the Middle English period (c. 1150-1500), the word "can" started to take on its modern meaning of ability.
* However, it was still often used to express knowledge or understanding.
Modern Usage:
* Over time, the meaning of "can" shifted primarily to denote ability or possibility.
* Today, we use "can" to indicate that something is possible or permissible.
Key Points:
* The word "can" has a long history and its meaning has evolved over time.
* Its origins lie in the Old English verb "cunnan," which meant "to know" or "to be able."
* Through Middle English, the meaning shifted to primarily express ability.
Additional Notes:
* The word "can" is related to other words in the English language, such as "ken" (to know) and "canny" (wise).
* It's interesting to note how the evolution of language can change the meaning of a word over centuries.