space

UK: speɪs | US: speɪs

Definition
  1. n. a continuous area or expanse that is free, available, or unoccupied

  2. n. the physical universe beyond the earth's atmosphere

  3. n. an interval of time

Structure
spac <area, expanse (from Latin "spatium")>e <silent letter, no semantic role>
Etymology

The word "space" originates from the Old French "espace," derived from Latin "spatium," meaning "room, area, distance, stretch of time." The Latin term likely evolved from Proto-Indo-European *speh₁- ("to stretch, extend"), reflecting the concept of expansion or breadth. Over time, "space" broadened from physical dimensions (e.g., empty area) to abstract notions (e.g., outer space, temporal intervals). The silent "e" in Modern English preserves the word's historical spelling but carries no meaning.

Examples
  1. The apartment has limited storage space.

  2. Astronauts conduct experiments in outer space.

  3. She paused for a brief space before answering.

  4. The artist used negative space to create balance.

  5. The project will be completed in the space of a month.