onset
|on/set|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈɑːnˌsɛt/
🇬🇧
/ˈɒnˌsɛt/
beginning
Etymology
Etymology Information
'onset' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'onsetten,' where 'on-' meant 'on' and 'setten' meant 'to set.'
Historical Evolution
'onsetten' transformed into the modern English word 'onset' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to set upon or attack,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'beginning or start.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the beginning or start of something, especially something unpleasant.
The onset of winter brought heavy snowfalls.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35