paradigm

Where does the word "paradigm" come from? It comes from Greek paradeigma, and was adopted directly into English (1400s).

Paradigm’s story begins in Greek: paradeigma meant “a pattern, an example.” Literally a pattern shown side by side, from para (beside) and deiknynai (to show). It reached English by 1400s as paradigm. Settled as the word for a typical example or pattern. Today, paradigm means a typical example or accepted model of thought or practice.

1. Stage 1 · Greek · ancient paradeigma "a pattern, an example", literally a pattern shown side by side, from para (beside) and deiknynai (to show).
2. Stage 2 · English · 1400s paradigm "a typical example or pattern of something", settled as the word for a typical example or pattern.