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Where does the word "envoy" come from? It comes from Late Latin inviare, passing through French before entering English (1660s).
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Where does the word "envoy" come from? It comes from Late Latin inviare, passing through French before entering English (1660s).
Envoy’s story begins in Late Latin: inviare meant “to send on the way.” 'in', on, plus 'via', way. By 1600s, the word had taken hold in French as envoyé. Past participle, one who is sent. It reached English by 1660s as envoy. The root of 'invoice' too. Today, envoy means a diplomatic messenger.
- Stage 1 · Late Latin · ancient inviare "to send on the way", 'in', on, plus 'via', way.
- Stage 2 · French · 1600s envoyé "sent", past participle, one who is sent.
- Stage 3 · English · 1660s envoy "messenger", the root of 'invoice' too.