rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryRoot: re-
Latin

re-

back, again; restoration or reversal

Forms

  • re-
  • red- — An early Latin form used before vowels and h.

Origin

Its ancestry before Latin is uncertain.

Note

In some old compounds the prefix adds emphasis, while in others its separate contribution has become unclear.

309 / 332
A clergy member stands before a congregation as people respectfully shake their hand after a service, making the honored religious role visible.
noun / adjective

reverend

REV-er-uhnd/rˈɛvɝʌnd/

Deserving deep reverence.

Etymology
reLatinback, again; restoration or reversal
+verLatinto respect, stand in awe
+endLatinto be, deserving to be

The pieces express someone who is to be respected, with re- perhaps adding emphasis. Originally describing anyone worthy of deep respect, the word became a respectful clergy title and then a noun for a clergyman.

Full entry

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