It
|it|
A1
/ɪt/
(it)
reference to a thing
Etymology
Etymology Information
'It' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'hit,' where 'hit' was used as a neuter pronoun.
Historical Evolution
'Hit' transformed into the Middle English word 'it,' and eventually became the modern English word 'it'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'that thing,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Pronoun 1
used to refer to a thing previously mentioned or easily identified.
I found a wallet on the street. It was full of cash.
Synonyms
Pronoun 2
used to refer to an animal or child of unspecified sex.
The cat is hungry. It needs food.
Pronoun 3
used to refer to a fact or situation previously mentioned or known.
It's raining outside.
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41