legion

Where does the word "legion" come from? It comes from Latin legio, passing through Old French before entering English (1200s).

Legion’s story begins in Latin: legio meant “levy of troops.” From 'legere', to choose or gather. By medieval, the word had taken hold in Old French as legion. A Roman army unit of about 5,000 men. It reached English by 1200s as legion. 'legion' for 'very many' comes from the Gospel demon who said 'my name is Legion'. Today, legion means a large military unit; a great number.

1. Stage 1 · Latin · ancient legio "levy of troops", from 'legere', to choose or gather.
2. Stage 2 · Old French · medieval legion "legion", a Roman army unit of about 5,000 men.
3. Stage 3 · English · 1200s legion "army unit", 'legion' for 'very many' comes from the Gospel demon who said 'my name is Legion'.