Etymology

To help them to continually improve their writing so they can choose just the word they want for a particular situation, many writers study etymology. The study of word origins adds richness and depth to their use of words. Many writers know exactly the effect a particular word will have upon their readers and, they know why. Words carry a lot of "baggage;" underlying meanings which make sense when they are explained but which resonate below the level of conscious thought.

The word "etymology" is derived from "etymon" (ετυμον: Greek for "true meaning"), plus "logos" (λογοσ: Greek for "word" or "study.") A word's history is traced by studying the history of its usage, the meanings of the root words from which it is constructed, and its changing meanings and usages over the years.

An example is the derivation of the word "depend," "De" (Latin for "down") and "pendere" (Latin for "to hang"). The word "pendere" was also involved in the development of the English words "pendulum" and "pendulous." So, to depend on someone is to "hang down" from them. Without the one doing the supporting, the "depender" will fall.

The believer is in a state of dependence upon the grace of God for his/her salvation. (Ephesians 2:8-9)

"But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:17.