concept

UK: ˈkɒn.sɛpt | US: ˈkɑːn.sɛpt

Definition

  1. n. an abstract idea or general notion

  2. n. a plan or intention; a conception

  3. n. (philosophy) a mental representation of something

Structure
con <together>cept <take>con <together>cept <take>
Etymology

concept = con<together> + cept<take>

  • con<together>: From Latin cum, meaning "with" or "together."
  • cept<take>: From Latin capere, meaning "to take" or "to seize."

Etymology Origin:
The word concept originates from the Latin conceptus (past participle of concipere, "to take in, conceive"), combining con- (together) and capere (to take). It reflects the idea of "taking in" or "grasping" an idea mentally. Over time, it evolved into Middle French concept before entering English in the 16th century, retaining its core meaning of a mental abstraction or formulated idea.

Examples

  1. The concept of democracy has evolved over centuries.

  2. She struggled to grasp the mathematical concept explained in class.

  3. The artist’s work explores the concept of identity.

  4. His business proposal introduced a revolutionary concept.

  5. Philosophers debate the concept of free will.