sell
UK: sɛl | US: sɛl
v. to exchange goods or services for money
v. to persuade someone of the merits of something
n. the act or process of selling
The word "sell" originates from Old English sellan, meaning "to give, deliver, or hand over." It evolved from Proto-Germanic saljaną, which carried the sense of offering or transferring possession. Over time, the meaning narrowed to specifically denote exchanging goods for money. The word’s simplicity reflects its ancient Germanic roots, retaining a direct connection to trade and transaction.
She plans to sell her old books online.
The salesman tried hard to sell the new product.
The store sells fresh vegetables every morning.
He couldn’t sell the idea to his team.
The house sold for more than the asking price.