The term “together” comes from the Old English word “tōgædere,” which means “in company with” or “at the same time.” This is derived from the combination of “to” (meaning “toward”) and “gædere” (a form of “gaderian,” meaning “to gather”).
1. Proto-Indo-European (PIE)
The PIE root “*ghedh-” means “to unite” or “to join.”
2. Old English (c. 5th to 11th century CE)
From the PIE root, the Old English word “gaderian” developed, meaning “to gather.” The term “tōgædere” combined “to” (toward) and “gædere” (to gather), meaning “in company with” or “at the same time.”
3. Middle English (c. 11th to 15th century CE)
The Old English “tōgædere” evolved into Middle English “togedere” or “together,” retaining the meaning of “in company with” or “at the same time.”
4. Modern English (from 15th century CE to present)
The term “together” evolved into its current form and pronunciation, retaining the meanings of “in or into one place,” “in company with others,” and “at the same time.”
Phonetic Evolution
Over time, the pronunciation of “together” has remained relatively stable from Old English to Modern English.
Usage Examples
- “Together is often used to describe being in the same place or doing something with others.”
- “Another example of ‘together’ in a sentence is ‘We worked together to complete the project.'”
Cultural or Historical Notes
The development of the word “together” was significantly influenced by its use in social, collaborative, and communal contexts, where unity and cooperation are essential. Over time, the term has been used to describe physical proximity, collaborative efforts, and simultaneous actions.
The word “together” reflects the concept of unity and cooperation, emphasizing the importance of being in the same place, working collaboratively, and acting simultaneously. It underscores the role of togetherness in building relationships, achieving common goals, and fostering a sense of community and solidarity.