object

UK: ˈɒbdʒɪkt | US: ˈɑːbdʒɪkt

Definition

  1. n. a material thing that can be seen and touched

  2. n. a goal or purpose

  3. vt. to express disapproval or opposition

  4. vi. to protest or argue against something

Structure
ob <against>ject <throw>
Etymology

The word "object" originates from Latin obiectum, the past participle of obicere ("to throw against"), combining ob- (against) and jacere (to throw). This reflects the dual modern meanings:

  1. Literal: A thing "thrown before" the senses (a visible/tangible item).
  2. Figurative: To "throw" opposition (verb form). The root ject appears in related words like reject (throw back) and project (throw forward).
Examples

  1. The museum displayed an ancient object from Egypt.

  2. Her main object was to win the competition.

  3. Many residents object to the new construction plan.

  4. He objected when the rules were changed unfairly.

  5. The lawyer raised an objection during the trial.