articulate

Where does the word "articulate" come from? It comes from Latin articulus, and was adopted directly into English (1600s).

Articulate’s story begins in Latin: articulus meant “a small joint, a segment.” A small joint, a segment, a diminutive of artus (a joint). It reached English by 1600s as articulate. Broadened from jointed segments of speech to speaking clearly and effectively. Today, articulate means able to express thoughts and ideas clearly and effectively.

1. Stage 1 · Latin · ancient articulus "a small joint, a segment", a small joint, a segment, a diminutive of artus (a joint).
2. Stage 2 · English · 1600s articulate "able to express oneself clearly and effectively", broadened from jointed segments of speech to speaking clearly and effectively.