Language is constantly evolving, and many words we use today meant something completely different during the Middle Ages. In this article, we’ll uncover 30 words that changed their meaning between the Middle Ages and modern times, showing how the English language transformed alongside shifts in culture, beliefs, and daily life. Here are some surprising examples of just how much words can evolve over time.
Silly
In modern English, the word silly is all about being foolish or a little ridiculous. But back in the Middle Ages, it meant something very different. Derived from the Old English sǣlig, it started out meaning “blessed,” “happy,” or “fortunate.” Over time, it took on the sense of being “innocent” or even “pitiable”—a far cry from its playful modern use!
Nice
Today, calling someone “nice” means they’re kind, pleasant, or agreeable. But in the Middle Ages, it wasn’t exactly a compliment. Derived from the Latin nescius, meaning “ignorant,” the word originally meant “foolish” or “stupid.” Over time, it softened into meanings like “finicky” or “precise” before evolving into the positive term we know today.
Meat
When we think of “meat” today, we think of the flesh of animals used as food. In the Middle Ages, though, the word had a much broader meaning. Derived from the Old English mete, it referred to any kind of food, not just animal flesh. So, back then, a feast of fruits, bread, and cheese could all be called “meat.”
Villain
These days, a “villain” is a bad guy—someone who’s evil or criminal. But in medieval times, the word didn’t have such dark undertones. Coming from the Old French vilain and Latin villanus, it simply meant a peasant or someone who worked on a villa or farm. It wasn’t until later that the term became associated with low moral character and, eventually, the classic villain we know from stories today.
Disease
Today, “disease” refers to an illness or medical condition that affects the body or mind. But in the Middle Ages, its meaning was much simpler. The word comes from the Old French desaise, meaning “discomfort” or “unease.” It was used to describe any kind of hardship or trouble, not just physical sickness. Over time, the term narrowed to its modern sense of an ailment or illness.
Artificial
These days, “artificial” often has a negative ring to it, meaning something fake or unnatural. In the Middle Ages, though, it had a more positive meaning. Coming from the Latin artificialis, it referred to something skilfully crafted or made with art and ingenuity—essentially, something impressive and well-made.
Token
Today, a “token” is a small object representing something larger, like a keepsake or a symbol. In medieval times, the word carried a deeper, almost mystical meaning. Derived from the Old English tāc(e)n, it referred to a sign or symbol, often with spiritual or supernatural significance.
Debt
In modern English, “debt” refers to money you owe. In the Middle Ages, the word had a broader and more moral meaning. Coming from the Old French dette and Latin debitum, it described an obligation or duty—whether financial, moral, or spiritual. It wasn’t just about owing money but about fulfilling one’s responsibilities.
Doom
Today, “doom” conjures images of disaster and catastrophic fate. But in the Middle Ages, it had a much more neutral meaning. Derived from the Old English dōm, it referred to a judgment, law, or decision. It was often used in religious contexts, such as the “Day of Doom,” meaning Judgment Day. The shift toward a darker connotation came much later.
Heaven
Nowadays, “heaven” is commonly understood as a spiritual paradise or the abode of God. In the Middle Ages, though, the word had a more down-to-earth meaning. Derived from the Old English heofon, it originally referred to the sky or firmament—essentially the physical heavens above.
Hell
The modern meaning of “hell” is a place of torment and punishment in the afterlife. In medieval times, however, it had a broader sense. The word comes from the Old English hel, meaning a hidden or covered place. It wasn’t initially associated with fire and brimstone but with the unseen world of the dead.
Sea
Today, the “sea” specifically refers to large bodies of saltwater. In the Middle Ages, the word had a more general meaning. Derived from Old English sǣ, it could refer to any large body of water, including lakes and inland seas.
Starve
We think of “starve” as dying from lack of food, but in the Middle Ages, it had a broader and more general meaning. Coming from the Old English steorfan, it simply meant “to die” from any cause, not just hunger. Over time, the word narrowed to its modern definition.
Wife
Today, a “wife” specifically means a married woman. In the Middle Ages, however, the term had a broader meaning. Derived from the Old English wīf, it referred to any woman, regardless of marital status. Over time, the meaning narrowed to signify a woman in the context of marriage.
World
In modern usage, “world” refers to the Earth and its inhabitants or everything that exists. In the Middle Ages, the Old English word woruld had a more specific meaning: it referred to the “age of man” or human existence. It often carried a spiritual implication, contrasting earthly life with the afterlife.
Word
Today, a “word” is the smallest unit of language that conveys meaning. In Old English, word carried an additional layer of importance, often meaning a solemn promise, agreement, or declaration. It was frequently tied to one’s honour or truthfulness.
Thing
In modern English, “thing” is a catch-all term for any object, concept, or entity. In the Middle Ages, however, the Old English word þing had a very different meaning: it referred to an assembly, council, or meeting. These “things” were gatherings where legal and political matters were discussed and decided. Over time, the meaning shifted to encompass the broader sense of objects or matters.
Weird
These days, “weird” means strange or unusual. In the Middle Ages, though, it had a much weightier meaning. Derived from the Old English wyrd, it referred to fate or destiny. The term was often used in a supernatural context, such as the “Weird Sisters” in Macbeth, where it still retained its original connection to controlling fate.
Run
In modern English, “run” means to move quickly on foot or to manage something. In the Middle Ages, however, the Old English rinnan referred to the flowing of water or other liquids. Its meaning eventually expanded to describe motion in general, leading to the many uses of the word today.
Kind
Today, “kind” refers to being compassionate or considerate. But in the Middle Ages, its meaning was tied to family and lineage. Derived from the Old English cynd, it referred to one’s nature, type, or kinship. Over time, the word shifted to describe behaviours reflective of one’s “good nature.”
Gossip
Now, “gossip” refers to idle talk about others, often scandalous. In the Middle Ages, though, it had a much more personal and positive meaning. Derived from the Old English godsibb (literally “god-relative”), it originally referred to a close friend or companion, particularly a godparent. The modern sense of the word only developed much later, as it became associated with chattering or exchanging news.
Room
Today, a “room” is a designated space within a building, such as a bedroom or living room. In the Middle Ages, however, the Old English word rūm meant “space” or “openness” in a more general sense. It could refer to any open area, not necessarily enclosed, and was often used to describe freedom or spaciousness.
Yard
Modern English defines a “yard” as an outdoor space, often grassy, adjacent to a building. In Old English, geard referred to an enclosed space or courtyard, such as the fenced area surrounding a house or farm. Over time, it shifted to mean any kind of enclosed outdoor area, eventually becoming the grassy plot many of us think of today.
Cheer
Today, “cheer” is associated with happiness, encouragement, or applause. In the Middle Ages, however, it had a broader and more neutral meaning. Derived from the Old French chere, meaning “face” or “expression,” it referred to someone’s countenance or mood. Depending on the context, “cheer” could mean a happy, sad, or angry expression. Over time, it came to signify positive feelings exclusively.
Harvest
Modern English defines “harvest” as the gathering of crops. In the Middle Ages, it had a dual meaning. Derived from the Old English hærfest, it referred not only to the act of gathering crops but also to the autumn season itself. Back then, “harvest” was synonymous with what we now call “fall,” marking the time when crops were traditionally brought in.
Journey
Today, a “journey” is a trip or travel from one place to another. In the Middle Ages, the word had a more time-specific meaning. Derived from the Old French jornée, it referred to a “day’s work” or the distance one could travel in a single day. Over time, it shifted from a measure of time to the broader sense of travel or adventure.
House
In modern usage, a “house” refers to a building where people live. In the Middle Ages, however, the Old English word hūs had a more flexible meaning. While it could refer to a physical dwelling, it was also used metaphorically to describe a family or household, often implying the people who lived within the structure rather than just the building itself.
Quick
Today, “quick” means fast or speedy. In the Middle Ages, its meaning was tied to life itself. Derived from the Old English cwic, it meant “alive” or “living.” This sense is preserved in phrases like “the quick and the dead,” referring to the living and the deceased, rather than anything related to speed.
Reveal
Modern “reveal” means to make something known or visible. In the Middle Ages, the word had a more spiritual and specific meaning. Derived from the Old French reveler and Latin revelare, it referred to uncovering divine truth or disclosing something sacred, often in a religious or mystical context. Over time, it came to mean exposing or showing anything previously hidden.
Hoard
Today, “hoard” refers to a collection of items—often hidden or stored away—typically accumulated excessively or compulsively. In the Middle Ages, the Old English word hord had a more neutral and even positive connotation. It simply referred to a treasure, valuable storage, or a carefully kept reserve of precious goods. This is why archaeological finds of medieval treasures are often referred to as “hoards,” such as the famous Sutton Hoo hoard or the Galloway Hoard. Over time, the word’s meaning shifted to imply secretive or excessive accumulation.
Language constantly evolves, and the 30 words explored here highlight just how much meanings can change over time. Exploring these shifts gives us a fascinating glimpse into the medieval world and the roots of the words we use today.
Online Sources
For readers who want to dive deeper into the fascinating world of etymology and medieval language, here are some recommended sources:
Oxford English Dictionary (OED) – An essential resource for exploring the historical meanings and etymology of English words.
Online Etymology Dictionary – A comprehensive and user-friendly tool for tracing the evolution of English words.
Middle English Dictionary – An invaluable resource for studying the vocabulary and language of the Middle Ages.
The Dictionary of Old English – A scholarly resource from the University of Toronto that provides definitions and usage examples for Old English words.
Also, check out The Oxford History of English, by Lynda Mugglestone.
Top Image: British Library Cotton MS Cleopatra C VIII
Language is constantly evolving, and many words we use today meant something completely different during the Middle Ages. In this article, we’ll uncover 30 words that changed their meaning between the Middle Ages and modern times, showing how the English language transformed alongside shifts in culture, beliefs, and daily life. Here are some surprising examples of just how much words can evolve over time.
Silly
In modern English, the word silly is all about being foolish or a little ridiculous. But back in the Middle Ages, it meant something very different. Derived from the Old English sǣlig, it started out meaning “blessed,” “happy,” or “fortunate.” Over time, it took on the sense of being “innocent” or even “pitiable”—a far cry from its playful modern use!
Nice
Today, calling someone “nice” means they’re kind, pleasant, or agreeable. But in the Middle Ages, it wasn’t exactly a compliment. Derived from the Latin nescius, meaning “ignorant,” the word originally meant “foolish” or “stupid.” Over time, it softened into meanings like “finicky” or “precise” before evolving into the positive term we know today.
Meat
When we think of “meat” today, we think of the flesh of animals used as food. In the Middle Ages, though, the word had a much broader meaning. Derived from the Old English mete, it referred to any kind of food, not just animal flesh. So, back then, a feast of fruits, bread, and cheese could all be called “meat.”
Villain
These days, a “villain” is a bad guy—someone who’s evil or criminal. But in medieval times, the word didn’t have such dark undertones. Coming from the Old French vilain and Latin villanus, it simply meant a peasant or someone who worked on a villa or farm. It wasn’t until later that the term became associated with low moral character and, eventually, the classic villain we know from stories today.
Disease
Today, “disease” refers to an illness or medical condition that affects the body or mind. But in the Middle Ages, its meaning was much simpler. The word comes from the Old French desaise, meaning “discomfort” or “unease.” It was used to describe any kind of hardship or trouble, not just physical sickness. Over time, the term narrowed to its modern sense of an ailment or illness.
Artificial
These days, “artificial” often has a negative ring to it, meaning something fake or unnatural. In the Middle Ages, though, it had a more positive meaning. Coming from the Latin artificialis, it referred to something skilfully crafted or made with art and ingenuity—essentially, something impressive and well-made.
Token
Today, a “token” is a small object representing something larger, like a keepsake or a symbol. In medieval times, the word carried a deeper, almost mystical meaning. Derived from the Old English tāc(e)n, it referred to a sign or symbol, often with spiritual or supernatural significance.
Debt
In modern English, “debt” refers to money you owe. In the Middle Ages, the word had a broader and more moral meaning. Coming from the Old French dette and Latin debitum, it described an obligation or duty—whether financial, moral, or spiritual. It wasn’t just about owing money but about fulfilling one’s responsibilities.
Doom
Today, “doom” conjures images of disaster and catastrophic fate. But in the Middle Ages, it had a much more neutral meaning. Derived from the Old English dōm, it referred to a judgment, law, or decision. It was often used in religious contexts, such as the “Day of Doom,” meaning Judgment Day. The shift toward a darker connotation came much later.
Heaven
Nowadays, “heaven” is commonly understood as a spiritual paradise or the abode of God. In the Middle Ages, though, the word had a more down-to-earth meaning. Derived from the Old English heofon, it originally referred to the sky or firmament—essentially the physical heavens above.
Hell
The modern meaning of “hell” is a place of torment and punishment in the afterlife. In medieval times, however, it had a broader sense. The word comes from the Old English hel, meaning a hidden or covered place. It wasn’t initially associated with fire and brimstone but with the unseen world of the dead.
Sea
Today, the “sea” specifically refers to large bodies of saltwater. In the Middle Ages, the word had a more general meaning. Derived from Old English sǣ, it could refer to any large body of water, including lakes and inland seas.
Starve
We think of “starve” as dying from lack of food, but in the Middle Ages, it had a broader and more general meaning. Coming from the Old English steorfan, it simply meant “to die” from any cause, not just hunger. Over time, the word narrowed to its modern definition.
Wife
Today, a “wife” specifically means a married woman. In the Middle Ages, however, the term had a broader meaning. Derived from the Old English wīf, it referred to any woman, regardless of marital status. Over time, the meaning narrowed to signify a woman in the context of marriage.
World
In modern usage, “world” refers to the Earth and its inhabitants or everything that exists. In the Middle Ages, the Old English word woruld had a more specific meaning: it referred to the “age of man” or human existence. It often carried a spiritual implication, contrasting earthly life with the afterlife.
Word
Today, a “word” is the smallest unit of language that conveys meaning. In Old English, word carried an additional layer of importance, often meaning a solemn promise, agreement, or declaration. It was frequently tied to one’s honour or truthfulness.
Thing
In modern English, “thing” is a catch-all term for any object, concept, or entity. In the Middle Ages, however, the Old English word þing had a very different meaning: it referred to an assembly, council, or meeting. These “things” were gatherings where legal and political matters were discussed and decided. Over time, the meaning shifted to encompass the broader sense of objects or matters.
Weird
These days, “weird” means strange or unusual. In the Middle Ages, though, it had a much weightier meaning. Derived from the Old English wyrd, it referred to fate or destiny. The term was often used in a supernatural context, such as the “Weird Sisters” in Macbeth, where it still retained its original connection to controlling fate.
Run
In modern English, “run” means to move quickly on foot or to manage something. In the Middle Ages, however, the Old English rinnan referred to the flowing of water or other liquids. Its meaning eventually expanded to describe motion in general, leading to the many uses of the word today.
Kind
Today, “kind” refers to being compassionate or considerate. But in the Middle Ages, its meaning was tied to family and lineage. Derived from the Old English cynd, it referred to one’s nature, type, or kinship. Over time, the word shifted to describe behaviours reflective of one’s “good nature.”
Gossip
Now, “gossip” refers to idle talk about others, often scandalous. In the Middle Ages, though, it had a much more personal and positive meaning. Derived from the Old English godsibb (literally “god-relative”), it originally referred to a close friend or companion, particularly a godparent. The modern sense of the word only developed much later, as it became associated with chattering or exchanging news.
Room
Today, a “room” is a designated space within a building, such as a bedroom or living room. In the Middle Ages, however, the Old English word rūm meant “space” or “openness” in a more general sense. It could refer to any open area, not necessarily enclosed, and was often used to describe freedom or spaciousness.
Yard
Modern English defines a “yard” as an outdoor space, often grassy, adjacent to a building. In Old English, geard referred to an enclosed space or courtyard, such as the fenced area surrounding a house or farm. Over time, it shifted to mean any kind of enclosed outdoor area, eventually becoming the grassy plot many of us think of today.
Cheer
Today, “cheer” is associated with happiness, encouragement, or applause. In the Middle Ages, however, it had a broader and more neutral meaning. Derived from the Old French chere, meaning “face” or “expression,” it referred to someone’s countenance or mood. Depending on the context, “cheer” could mean a happy, sad, or angry expression. Over time, it came to signify positive feelings exclusively.
Harvest
Modern English defines “harvest” as the gathering of crops. In the Middle Ages, it had a dual meaning. Derived from the Old English hærfest, it referred not only to the act of gathering crops but also to the autumn season itself. Back then, “harvest” was synonymous with what we now call “fall,” marking the time when crops were traditionally brought in.
Journey
Today, a “journey” is a trip or travel from one place to another. In the Middle Ages, the word had a more time-specific meaning. Derived from the Old French jornée, it referred to a “day’s work” or the distance one could travel in a single day. Over time, it shifted from a measure of time to the broader sense of travel or adventure.
House
In modern usage, a “house” refers to a building where people live. In the Middle Ages, however, the Old English word hūs had a more flexible meaning. While it could refer to a physical dwelling, it was also used metaphorically to describe a family or household, often implying the people who lived within the structure rather than just the building itself.
Quick
Today, “quick” means fast or speedy. In the Middle Ages, its meaning was tied to life itself. Derived from the Old English cwic, it meant “alive” or “living.” This sense is preserved in phrases like “the quick and the dead,” referring to the living and the deceased, rather than anything related to speed.
Reveal
Modern “reveal” means to make something known or visible. In the Middle Ages, the word had a more spiritual and specific meaning. Derived from the Old French reveler and Latin revelare, it referred to uncovering divine truth or disclosing something sacred, often in a religious or mystical context. Over time, it came to mean exposing or showing anything previously hidden.
Hoard
Today, “hoard” refers to a collection of items—often hidden or stored away—typically accumulated excessively or compulsively. In the Middle Ages, the Old English word hord had a more neutral and even positive connotation. It simply referred to a treasure, valuable storage, or a carefully kept reserve of precious goods. This is why archaeological finds of medieval treasures are often referred to as “hoards,” such as the famous Sutton Hoo hoard or the Galloway Hoard. Over time, the word’s meaning shifted to imply secretive or excessive accumulation.
Language constantly evolves, and the 30 words explored here highlight just how much meanings can change over time. Exploring these shifts gives us a fascinating glimpse into the medieval world and the roots of the words we use today.
Online Sources
Oxford English Dictionary (OED) – An essential resource for exploring the historical meanings and etymology of English words.
Online Etymology Dictionary – A comprehensive and user-friendly tool for tracing the evolution of English words.
Middle English Dictionary – An invaluable resource for studying the vocabulary and language of the Middle Ages.
The Dictionary of Old English – A scholarly resource from the University of Toronto that provides definitions and usage examples for Old English words.
Also, check out The Oxford History of English, by Lynda Mugglestone.
Top Image: British Library Cotton MS Cleopatra C VIII
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