item
UK: ˈaɪ.təm | US: ˈaɪ.təm
n. a single article or unit in a list, collection, or series
n. a piece of news or information
n. (in accounting) an entry in a financial record
The word "item" originates from Latin item, meaning "also" or "likewise," used adverbially to introduce entries in a list. It entered Middle English via Old French item, retaining its function as a marker for sequential entries. Over time, it evolved to denote the individual entries themselves, shifting from an adverb to a noun. The logic reflects how list markers (e.g., "also") can become synonymous with the listed objects.
Please check each item on the shopping list before leaving.
The news broadcast covered an important item about climate change.
The invoice includes an item for shipping costs.
She added one more item to her to-do list.
The museum displayed every item with detailed descriptions.