Online Etymology Dictionary

etymonline.comLaunched 2001

The internet's go-to source for the origin and history of English words

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Online Etymology Dictionary screenshot
/ About /

Online Etymology Dictionary (etymonline) is a reference website providing detailed accounts of the origins, historical meanings, and evolution of English words, phrases, and idioms. Created in 2001 by Douglas Harper, it serves as a comprehensive etymological resource for anyone curious about the history of the English language. The site is maintained by Douglas Harper with Talia Felix as associate editor since 2021.

/ How it works /

Users search for English words or phrases and receive detailed etymological explanations of their historical meanings and linguistic evolution.

/ Who it's for /

language enthusiasts, students, writers, and anyone curious about English word origins

/ More info /

Background.

Status
launched
Business model
freemium
Launched
2001

Founders

/ Discovered patterns /

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