Etymology of the units of measurement in the English language

Abstract: This article explores the etymological origins of units of measurement in the English language, tracing their development from ancient systems to modern standardized units. It examines how historical, cultural, and scientific influences have shaped the terminology used for measuring length, weight, volume, temperature, and time. By analyzing words such as “inch,” “pound,” “gallon,” and “second,” the study reveals linguistic borrowings from Latin, Greek, Old English, and other languages, highlighting the diverse roots and evolving meanings behind common measurement terms. The article also considers the transition from traditional Imperial units to the metric system and the impact of global scientific discourse on English measurement vocabulary. Through this linguistic lens, the article provides insight into the interplay between language, culture, and scientific progress.

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Publication Details

Journal
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)
Published
2025-06-15
DOI
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15667566
Primary Topic
Medical and Biological Sciences
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
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article

Etymology of the units of measurement in the English language

Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)
Medical and Biological Sciences
article

Etymology of the units of measurement in the English language

article en

Abstract

Abstract: This article explores the etymological origins of units of measurement in the English language, tracing their development from ancient systems to modern standardized units. It examines how historical, cultural, and scientific influences have shaped the terminology used for measuring length, weight, volume, temperature, and time. By analyzing words such as “inch,” “pound,” “gallon,” and “second,” the study reveals linguistic borrowings from Latin, Greek, Old English, and other languages, highlighting the diverse roots and evolving meanings behind common measurement terms. The article also considers the transition from traditional Imperial units to the metric system and the impact of global scientific discourse on English measurement vocabulary. Through this linguistic lens, the article provides insight into the interplay between language, culture, and scientific progress.

Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)
Uzbek State University of World Languages (UZ)
Quality Education
Openalex Percentile: Top 27%
Medical and Biological Sciences
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