Etymology Map
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Convey

3 stages from Vulgar Latin to English.

Today it means to transport; to communicate

Where does the word "convey" come from? It comes from Vulgar Latin conviare, passing through Old French before entering English (1300s).

1
Stage 1 of 3
conviare
Vulgar Latin · ancient
"to accompany"
'com-' plus 'via', way
2
Stage 2 of 3
conveier
Old French · medieval
"to escort"
'conveyance' in law is the transfer of property
3
Stage 3 of 3
convey
English · 1300s
"to escort"
'conveyor belts' date from the 1900s
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Read the full story

Convey’s story begins in Vulgar Latin: conviare meant “to accompany.” 'com-' plus 'via', way. By medieval, the word had taken hold in Old French as conveier. 'conveyance' in law is the transfer of property. It reached English by 1300s as convey. 'conveyor belts' date from the 1900s. Today, convey means to transport; to communicate.