The term “now” comes from the Old English word “nu,” which means “at the present time.” Here’s a detailed chronological breakdown:
1. Proto-Indo-European (PIE)
The PIE root “*nu-” means “now” or “at this moment.”
2. Proto-Germanic
From the PIE root, the Proto-Germanic word “*nu” developed, retaining the meaning “now” or “at this moment.”
3. Old English (c. 5th to 11th century CE)
The term “nu” in Old English was used to mean “at the present time” or “now.”
4. Middle English (c. 11th to 15th century CE)
The Old English “nu” evolved into Middle English “now,” maintaining the meaning of “at the present time.”
5. Modern English (from 15th century CE to present)
The term “now” evolved into its current form and pronunciation, meaning “at the present moment” or “immediately.”
The word “now” reflects the concept of the present time, emphasizing the immediate or current moment. It is a fundamental term in the English language, used to indicate the present in contrast to the past or future, and it plays a crucial role in everyday communication and temporal expressions.