Langimage
English

staff

|staff|

B1

🇺🇸

/stæf/

🇬🇧

/stɑːf/

group of workers

Etymology
Etymology Information

'staff' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'stæf', where it meant 'stick or rod'.

Historical Evolution

'stæf' transformed into the Middle English word 'staff', and eventually became the modern English word 'staff'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'stick or rod', but over time it evolved to also mean 'a group of employees'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a group of people who work for an organization or business.

The hospital staff is very dedicated.

Synonyms

Noun 2

a long stick used as a support or weapon.

He used a staff to help him walk.

Synonyms

Verb 1

to provide an organization or business with workers.

The company staffed the new office with experienced employees.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35