demand
UK: dɪˈmɑːnd | US: dɪˈmænd
n. an insistent and peremptory request
vt. to ask for forcefully, in a way that shows refusal to accept refusal
vt. to require as necessary or appropriate
The word "demand" originates from Old French demander, meaning "to request," which itself derives from Latin demandare ("to entrust, commit to someone’s charge"). The Latin roots break down into de- (completely) + mandare (to order, command). Over time, the meaning shifted from "entrusting a task" to "insistently asking for something," reflecting a stronger, more authoritative tone. The morpheme mand persists in related words like "command" and "mandate," reinforcing the idea of authoritative instruction.
The workers demanded higher wages and better conditions.
This job demands precision and attention to detail.
She handed him a list of demands from the protestors.
The teacher demanded silence during the exam.
The situation demands immediate action.