awesome

The word "awesome" combines "awe" (from Old English ege, meaning "dread" or "reverence") with the suffix "-some" (Old English -sum, meaning "characterized by"). Originally, it described something that inspired profound fear or wonder (e.g., divine power). Over time, its intensity softened, especially in modern slang, where it now often expresses enthusiastic approval ("That concert was awesome!"). This shift reflects a broader cultural trend of hyperbolic language dilution.