thought
UK: θɔːt | US: θɔːt
n. 1. The process of thinking or considering; mental activity.
n. 2. An idea, opinion, or concept formed in the mind.
n. 3. Careful consideration or attention.
thought = think<to consider> + t<past tense suffix>
- think: From Old English þencan ("to conceive in the mind, consider"), related to þanc ("thought, gratitude").
- t: A past tense marker in Old English, evolving into the modern "-ght" ending in irregular verbs (e.g., bring/brought, seek/sought).
Etymology Origin:
The word thought traces back to Old English þōht, derived from the verb þencan ("to think"). The "-ght" spelling reflects a Germanic past participle pattern, where think + t originally formed þōht. Over time, the spelling standardized to thought, preserving the root think while the suffix condensed into a silent -ght. This evolution mirrors similar verbs like buy/bought and catch/caught, showcasing English's Germanic roots and irregular verb patterns.
She paused, lost in thought.
His speech expressed profound thoughts on equality.
I gave the matter serious thought before deciding.
The book explores the history of human thought.
A sudden thought made him smile.