sense

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

Sense’s story begins in Latin: sensus meant “perception.” From 'sentire', to feel. By medieval, the word had taken hold in Old French as sens. A faculty of perception. It reached English by 1300s as sense. 'common sense' dates from the 1500s. Today, sense means a faculty of perception; good judgement.

1. Stage 1 · Latin · ancient sensus "perception", from 'sentire', to feel.
2. Stage 2 · Old French · medieval sens "meaning, sense", a faculty of perception.
3. Stage 3 · English · 1300s sense "meaning", 'common sense' dates from the 1500s.