raise
UK: reɪz | US: reɪz
vt. to lift or move something to a higher position
vt. to increase the amount, level, or strength of something
vt. to bring up or nurture (a child, animal, or plant)
n. an increase in salary or wages
raise = rais<lift> + e<verb suffix>
- rais (from Old Norse reisa, meaning "to lift or erect")
- e (a common verb-forming suffix in Middle English, often added to Norse-derived roots)
Etymology Origin:
The word "raise" entered English from Old Norse reisa during the Viking invasions (8th–11th centuries), replacing the native Old English rǣran (which evolved into "rear"). The Norse root reis- implied upward motion, aligning with its modern meaning of lifting or increasing. The silent -e was added in Middle English to standardize verb forms. Over time, "raise" expanded semantically to include nurturing (e.g., raising children) and financial increases (e.g., salary raises), reflecting broader cultural and economic shifts.
She raised her hand to ask a question.
The company decided to raise prices due to inflation.
He was raised by his grandparents in the countryside.
Workers demanded a raise after three years without a salary increase.
The sun raises temperatures significantly in summer.