itself
UK: ɪtˈself | US: ɪtˈself
Definition
pron. used to emphasize the identity or autonomy of a thing or person previously mentioned
pron. (reflexive) referring back to the subject of the clause
Structure
it <neutral pronoun>self <identity/reflexive>
Etymology
The word "itself" combines the Old English neuter pronoun "hit" (later simplified to "it") with "self," derived from Proto-Germanic *selbaz, meaning "same" or "identity." The fusion reflects a grammatical need for reflexive emphasis in Middle English, mirroring structures like "himself" and "herself." The term solidified by the 14th century, retaining its core function of highlighting autonomy or reflexivity.
Examples
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