thank

UK: θæŋk | US: θæŋk

Definition

  1. vt. to express gratitude or appreciation to someone

  2. n. (thanks) an expression of gratitude

Structure
than <thought>than <thought>
Etymology

thank = than<thought> + k (historical suffix)

  • than<thought>: Derived from Old English þanc or þonc, meaning "thought, gratitude, goodwill."
  • k (historical suffix): A remnant of Old English inflectional endings, no longer active in modern usage.

Etymology Origin:
The word "thank" originates from Old English þancian ("to give thanks"), rooted in þanc ("thought, gratitude"). Over time, the meaning narrowed from "thought" to specifically "gratitude," reflecting how gratitude was conceptualized as a mental acknowledgment. The modern form dropped the Old English verb suffix -ian, leaving the core morpheme "thank."

Examples

  1. She thanked him for his help.

  2. I forgot to thank the host before leaving.

  3. A simple "thank you" can make someone's day.

  4. He wrote a note to thank his teacher.

  5. Thanks are due to everyone who contributed.