till
UK: tɪl | US: tɪl
prep./conj. up to the time of
vt. to cultivate land for farming
n. a cash register or drawer for money
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The word "till" has a dual history. As a preposition/conjunction meaning "up to," it originates from Old English til, derived from Old Norse til (goal, point in time). Its agricultural sense (to cultivate) comes from Old English tilian (to strive, labor), later narrowing to farm work. The financial meaning (cash drawer) emerged in the 15th century, possibly from Middle English tillen (to draw), referencing pulling the drawer open. Despite identical spelling, these meanings evolved separately.
Wait here till I return.
Farmers till the soil before planting seeds.
The cashier counted the money in the till.
She worked from dawn till dusk.
Modern tractors make tilling more efficient.