assiduities
|as-si-du-i-ties|
/əˌsɪˈdjuːɪti/
(assiduity)
diligent attention
Etymology
'assiduity' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'assiduitas', where 'assiduus' meant 'constant' or 'persistent' (from the root 'sed-' meaning 'to sit').
'assiduity' changed from the Latin word 'assiduitas' into Old French 'assiduité' and then entered English through Middle English as 'assiduity'.
Initially it meant 'the state of being present or constant' (related to 'sitting near'), but over time it evolved into its current sense of 'persistent application or diligence' and, in plural, 'attentions or services'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
persistent and careful attention or diligence; steady application to a task (often used as an abstract noun; can appear in plural when referring to specific acts of diligence).
His assiduities in preparing the report impressed the entire committee.
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Noun 2
attentions, services, or courtesies shown to someone (archaic or literary use; commonly appears in the plural).
He thanked her for the assiduities she had shown during his long illness.
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Last updated: 2025/11/03 05:38