Add Quote by Eric Partridge
“A dash derives from "to dash," to shatter, strike violently, to throw suddenly or violently, hence to throw carelessly in or on, hence to write carelessly or suddenly, to add or insert suddenly or carelessly to or in the page. "To dash" comes from Middle English daschen, itself probably from Scandinavian-compare Danish daske, to beat, to strike. Ultimately the word is-rather obviously-echoic.”
About This Quote
Source Dictionary: The Oxford English Dictionary, 2nd edition, 1989
The term “dash” originates from a Middle English word meaning to strike or beat, reflecting its energetic, sudden connotation.
In simple terms: “Dash” comes from a word meaning to strike quickly.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the forceful roots of the word.
Themes
language
etymology
history
Mood
curious
analytical
Type
etymological
educational
When to use this quote
- writing
- editing
- design
- advertising
Key Concepts
phonetics
semantic shift
Questions to Reflect On
- How does knowing a word’s origin change your usage?
- Can you use “dash” to convey energy in writing?
A Different Perspective
The word’s meaning has broadened, so its original intensity may not always apply.
