amongst
UK: əˈmʌŋst | US: əˈmʌŋst
prep. in the midst of; surrounded by
prep. included in a group or category
prep. shared by or common to (a group)
The word "amongst" originates from Old English on gemang, meaning "in a crowd." Over time, gemang (a collective noun for "mingling") evolved into "among," with the "-st" suffix added later as an adverbial form, common in Middle English. This suffix does not alter the core meaning but adds a slightly archaic or formal tone compared to "among." The word reflects the idea of being surrounded or intermixed within a group.
She found herself amongst friends at the party.
The tradition is still practiced amongst certain tribes.
He distributed the sweets amongst the children.
The book is popular amongst young readers.
A sense of calm spread amongst the crowd.