promote
/prəˈmoʊt/
verb
Origin
Latin
promovere — to move forward, advance
Overview
Meaning Now
- To advance or raise someone to a higher position or rank.
- To further the progress or growth of something, such as a cause, enterprise, or venture.
- To encourage the acceptance or popularity of a product through advertising or publicity.
Literal older meaning
to move forward
Language path
Latin → Middle English → English
Earliest form
promoten
Earliest period
late 14th century
Journey
The term entered the English language during the late 14th century, initially used in ecclesiastical or administrative contexts regarding the advancement of individuals to higher offices or titles.
Evolution
- Latin
promovere
“to move forward”
Combination of 'pro-' (forward) and 'movere' (to move).
- Old French
promouvoir
“to advance, push forward”
- Middle English
promoten
“to advance in rank or dignity”
Connections
Word parts
pro-
prefix
forward
mot
root
to move
Related across languages
French
promouvoir
to promote
Spanish
promover
to promote
Explore next
Related to promote
External references use DefinedTerm semantics.