decide
/dɪˈsaɪd/
verb
Origin
Latin
decidere — to cut off, determine
Overview
Meaning Now
- To make a choice or come to a resolution after consideration.
- To settle an issue or contest by giving a verdict or outcome.
Literal older meaning
to cut off
Language path
Latin → Old French → English
Earliest form
decider
Earliest period
14th century
Journey
The verb reflects the metaphor of 'cutting off' other possibilities, leaving only one remaining path of action. This is the same root found in 'suicide' (killing oneself) or 'homicide' (killing a human).
Evolution
- Latin
decidere
“to cut off, sever”
From de- 'off' + caedere 'to cut'.
- Old French
decider
“to settle, determine”
- Middle English
deciden
“to settle a dispute or question”
Connections
Word parts
de-
prefix
off, down
-cide
root
to cut
Related across languages
French
décider
to decide
Spanish
decidir
to decide
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External references use DefinedTerm semantics.