near

UK: nɪə | US: nɪr

Definition

  1. adj. at a short distance in space or time

  2. adv. at or to a short distance

  3. prep. close to

  4. vt./vi. to approach or come close

Structure
nea <close>r <comparative suffix>
Etymology

near = nea<close> + r<comparative suffix>

  • nea (Old English nēar, comparative of nēah "close")
  • r (Old English comparative suffix, akin to "-er" in modern English)

Etymology Origin:
The word "near" originates from Old English nēar, the comparative form of nēah ("close"). It evolved from Proto-Germanic nēhwiz, related to Dutch naar and German nah. The "-r" suffix marks its comparative function, similar to "-er" in words like "nearer." Over time, "near" expanded from spatial proximity to include temporal and abstract closeness.

Examples

  1. The bus stop is near the supermarket.

  2. She moved nearer to the window to see better.

  3. Summer is drawing near.

  4. He near missed the train this morning.

  5. The project is near completion.