The term “community” comes from the Latin word “communitas,” which means “fellowship” or “shared in common.” This is derived from the Latin root “communis,” meaning “common” or “shared.”
1. Proto-Indo-European (PIE)
The PIE root “*mei-” means “to change” or “to go,” which evolved into terms implying a shared exchange or communal activity.
2. Latin
From the PIE root, the Latin word “communis” developed, meaning “common” or “shared.” The noun “communitas” is derived from “communis,” meaning “fellowship” or “community.”
3. Old French (c. 9th to 14th century CE)
The Latin term “communitas” evolved into Old French “comunité,” meaning “community” or “commonness.”
4. Middle English (c. 11th to 15th century CE)
The Old French “comunité” was adopted into Middle English as “communitie,” meaning “a group of people living together and sharing common interests or resources.”
5. Modern English (from 15th century CE to present)
The term “community” evolved into its current form and pronunciation, retaining the meanings of “a group of people living in the same place or having a particular characteristic in common” and “a feeling of fellowship with others.”
Phonetic Evolution
Over time, the pronunciation of “community” has remained relatively stable, transitioning from Old French “comunité” to Modern English “community.”
Usage Examples
- “The local community came together to support the new initiative.”
- “Another example of ‘community’ in a sentence is ‘She enjoys being part of an online community of writers.'”
Cultural or Historical Notes
The development of the word “community” was significantly influenced by its use in describing groups of people who share common interests, resources, or living spaces. Community has been a central concept in social organization, emphasizing the importance of shared values, cooperation, and mutual support.
The word “community” reflects the importance of collective identity, cooperation, and social bonds, emphasizing the role of communities in providing support, fostering a sense of belonging, and facilitating collective action.