duty
UK: ˈdjuːti | US: ˈduːti
n. a moral or legal obligation; a responsibility
n. a task or action required as part of one's job or role
n. a tax or fee imposed on imports, exports, or manufactured goods
duty = du<owed> + ty<noun suffix>
- du (from Old French deu, past participle of devoir "to owe," from Latin debere "to owe")
- ty (noun-forming suffix indicating state or condition, from Latin -tatem, via Old French -té)
Etymology Origin:
The word "duty" traces back to the Latin debere ("to owe"), reflecting the concept of something "owed" or required. Through Old French deu (past participle of devoir), it evolved into Middle English as duete, emphasizing moral or legal obligations. The suffix -ty solidified its noun form, framing duty as a binding responsibility. The word’s progression mirrors societal shifts from feudal obligations to modern ethical and legal duties.
It is every citizen’s duty to vote in elections.
The soldier fulfilled his duty with honor.
Customs officers collect duty on imported goods.
She felt a strong duty to care for her aging parents.
The manager assigned weekend duties to the staff.