since

UK: sɪns | US: sɪns

Definition

  1. adv. from a past time until now

  2. conj. from a past time until the present; because

  3. prep. from a particular time in the past

Structure
sin <from>ce <old English suffix>sin <from>ce <old English suffix>
Etymology

"Since" traces back to Old English "sīththan," a contraction of "sīth thām" ("after that"). Over time, it simplified phonetically and semantically, merging the idea of temporal progression ("from then until now") with causal logic ("because"). The word’s dual function (time/reason) reflects its Germanic roots, where temporal markers often evolved into logical connectors.

Examples

  1. She has lived here since 2010.

  2. Since you’re busy, I’ll handle the task.

  3. He hasn’t called since last week.

  4. Since it’s raining, we’ll stay indoors.

  5. The store has been closed since noon.