Yukimoji - Learn Japanese

VocabJLPT N1

origin of a word

Noun

Definitions

1. origin of a word
2. derivation of a word
3. Etymology

This word refers to the origin or etymology of a word — where it came from historically. It is commonly used in academic or educational contexts when discussing how a word developed or what language it was borrowed from.

Example sentences

Sentence 1

The article ran a feature on tracing the origins of new words.

Sentence 2

You're right — knowing the etymology of a word does make it easier to remember.

Sentence 3

My boss said, "A proposal that nails the etymology is a strong one."

Sentence 4

My manager told me to explain the etymology behind the new project name.

Sentence 5

Random thought, but "Arbeit" comes from German, right?