The term “angle” has its origins in the Latin word “angulus,” which means “corner” or “angle.” This, in turn, is derived from the Proto-Indo-European (PIE) root “ang-” or “ank-” meaning “to bend” or “to compress.”
1. Proto-Indo-European (PIE)
The PIE root “ang-” or “ank-” means “to bend” or “to compress.”
2. Latin
From the PIE root, the Latin word “angulus” developed, meaning “corner” or “angle.”
3. Old French (c. 9th to 14th century CE)
The Latin term “angulus” evolved into Old French “angle,” retaining the meanings of “corner” or “angle.”
4. Middle English (c. 11th to 15th century CE)
The Old French “angle” was adopted into Middle English as “angle,” meaning “corner” or “angle.”
5. Modern English (from 15th century CE to present)
The term “angle” evolved into its current form and pronunciation, referring to the space (usually measured in degrees) between two intersecting lines or surfaces at or close to the point where they meet.
The word “angle” reflects the geometric concept of the space between intersecting lines or surfaces, used in mathematics, physics, and various practical applications.