The term “reckon” comes from the Old English word “gerecenian,” which means “to explain” or “to recount.” Here’s a detailed chronological breakdown:
1. Proto-Indo-European (PIE)
The PIE root “*reg-” means “to move in a straight line” or “to direct.”
2. Proto-Germanic
From the PIE root, the Proto-Germanic word “*rekanon” developed, meaning “to count” or “to recount.”
3. Old English (c. 5th to 11th century CE)
The term “gerecenian” in Old English was used to mean “to explain,” “to recount,” or “to relate.” The word “recenian” also appeared, meaning “to reckon” or “to count.”
4. Middle English (c. 11th to 15th century CE)
The Old English “gerecenian” evolved into Middle English “rekenen,” maintaining the meanings of “to count,” “to estimate,” or “to calculate.”
5. Modern English (from 15th century CE to present)
The term “reckon” evolved into its current form and pronunciation, meaning “to count,” “to calculate,” “to consider,” or “to regard as.”
The word “reckon” reflects the concept of counting or calculating, as well as forming judgments or estimations. It is used in various contexts, from arithmetic calculations to making considered judgments or predictions.