equal
UK: ˈiːkwəl | US: ˈiːkwəl
adj. being the same in quantity, size, degree, or value
adj. having the same rights or status
n. a person or thing considered to be the same as another in status or quality
vt. to be the same as or equivalent to something else
equal = equ<even> + al<adjective suffix>
- equ (from Latin aequus, meaning "even, level, fair")
- al (a suffix forming adjectives, from Latin -alis)
Etymology Origin:
The word equal traces back to Latin aequalis, derived from aequus ("even, level"). The root equ- conveys balance and fairness, while -al turns it into an adjective. Over time, equal evolved in English to describe not just physical sameness (e.g., size or quantity) but also abstract parity (e.g., rights or status). The logic reflects a progression from concrete equality (measurable) to metaphorical equality (social/legal).
All citizens are equal under the law.
The two boxes are equal in weight.
She worked hard to equal her brother’s achievements.
The tournament aims to provide equal opportunities for all players.
Divide the cake into equal parts for everyone.