WHY DOES AWFUL MEAN BAD?

History of Awful

The word "awful" has a long and winding history, dating back to the 13th century. It is derived from the Middle English word "aweful," which itself comes from the Old English word "egeful," meaning "full of awe." In its earliest usage, "awful" had a positive connotation, meaning "inspiring awe or reverence." However, over time, the word's meaning began to shift, and by the 16th century, it had come to mean "causing awe or terror." It was not until the 17th century that "awful" began to be used in the sense of "very bad" or "terrible."

Why Awful Means Bad

There are a few theories about why "awful" came to mean bad. One theory is that the word's negative connotation is rooted in its association with death and the supernatural. In the 16th and 17th centuries, the word "awful" was often used to describe things that were associated with death, such as ghosts, demons, and hell. Another theory is that the word's negative connotation is due to its association with judgment and punishment. In the 17th century, the word "awful" was often used to describe the judgment of God or the punishment of sinners.

Awful Today

Today, "awful" is used almost exclusively in a negative sense. It is used to describe things that are very bad, terrible, or unpleasant. Some common examples of things that might be described as awful include:

• A terrible accident
• A painful illness
• A bad movie
• A rude person
• A disgusting meal

Conclusion

The word "awful" has come a long way since its origins in the 13th century. Once a word that inspired awe and reverence, it is now used almost exclusively to describe things that are very bad, terrible, or unpleasant. This shift in meaning is likely due to the word's association with death, the supernatural, and judgment.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the origin of the word "awful"?

The word "awful" comes from the Old English word "egeful," meaning "full of awe."

• When did "awful" start to mean bad?

"Awful" began to be used in the sense of "very bad" or "terrible" in the 17th century.

• Why did "awful" come to mean bad?

There are a few theories about why "awful" came to mean bad. One theory is that the word's negative connotation is rooted in its association with death and the supernatural. Another theory is that the word's negative connotation is due to its association with judgment and punishment.

• What are some common examples of things that might be described as awful?

Some common examples of things that might be described as awful include a terrible accident, a painful illness, a bad movie, a rude person, or a disgusting meal.

• Is "awful" always a negative word?

No, "awful" can sometimes be used in a positive sense to describe something that is very impressive or amazing. However, this usage is rare.