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My goal is pretty much simple nonetheless challenging; I'm going to try and find as many English words as possible that are Greek. Challenge accepted. And trust me, there's a lot of them.


Thursday, April 4, 2013

Eu... - Euphoria, Euphemism, Euphony, Eulogy, Eucalyptus, Euthanasia.

The prefix Eu- comes from the Ancient Greek word εὖ, which means well, good. So, most words starting with this prefix, are probably Greek. Some examples:


 


Euphoria. From Ancient Greek εὐφορία, euphoria, to bear well. From εὖ, eph, well, good + φέρειν, pherein, to bear. A good feeling, a state of intense happiness and joy.

Derived or related words: euphoric.





Euphemism. From Ancient Greek εὐφημισμός, euphēmismos, from εὖ, eph, well, good + φήμη, phēmē, rumor, talk. The use of a word or phrase to replace another with one that is considered less offensive, blunt or vulgar than the word or phrase it replaces.

Derived or related words: euphemistic.




Euphony. From Ancient Greek εὐφωνία, euphōnia, from εὖ, eph, well, good + φωνή, phonē, voice, sound. A pronunciation of letters and syllables which is pleasing to the ear. Good phonetic quality of certain words.

Derived or related words: euphonious.



Eulogy. From Ancient Greek εὐλογία, eulogia, praise. From εὖ, eph, well, good + λόγος, logos, speech. Speaking highly of someone; the act of praising someone. A speech to honor a deceased person at a funeral.

Derived or related words: eulogist, eulogize.





Eucalyptus. This beautiful tree, I believe, is known in many countries in this world. Its name is Greek, ευκάλυπτος, eucalyptos, from εὖ, eph, well, good + καλύπτω, I cover. Means easily covered.





Euthanasia. From Ancient Greek εὐθανασία, euthanasia, from εὖ, eph, good, easy + θάνατος, thanatos, death. The practice of intentionally and painlessly killing a human being or animal for humane reasons, especially in order to end great suffering or poor quality of life.
Derived or related words: euthanize.

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