endanger

UK: ɪnˈdeɪn(d)ʒə | US: ɪnˈdeɪndʒər

Definition

  1. vt. to expose to harm or danger

  2. vt. to threaten the existence of something

Structure
en <cause to be>danger <risk>
Etymology

endanger = en<cause to be> + danger<risk>

  • en (prefix): From Old French "en-," meaning "cause to be" or "put into."
  • danger: From Old French "danger" (risk, peril), derived from Latin "dominarium" (power of a lord), later evolving to signify threat or hazard.

Etymology Origin:
The word "endanger" combines the causative prefix "en-" with "danger," reflecting the action of placing someone or something into a state of risk. Originally, "danger" implied the power of a lord (Latin "dominus"), but by the Middle Ages, it shifted to mean peril. The prefix "en-" actively transforms the noun into a verb, creating a vivid sense of imposing threat.

Examples

  1. Pollution can endanger marine life.

  2. The reckless driver endangered pedestrians.

  3. Climate change endangers global food security.

  4. Smoking endangers your health.

  5. The leaked documents endangered national security.