verve

Where does the word "verve" come from? It comes from Latin verba, passing through Old French before entering English (1690s).

Verve’s story begins in Latin: verba meant “words.” The plural of verbum, 'word'. By 1100s, the word had taken hold in Old French as verve. Shifted from 'words' to whimsical talk, caprice, and a messenger's lively report. It reached English by 1690s as verve. Narrowed to artistic enthusiasm and energetic talent, especially in writing. Today, verve means energy and enthusiasm in the expression of ideas, especially in art.

1. Stage 1 · Latin · ancient verba "words", the plural of verbum, 'word'.
2. Stage 2 · Old French · 1100s verve "caprice, odd humor; a lively report", shifted from 'words' to whimsical talk, caprice, and a messenger's lively report.
3. Stage 3 · English · 1690s verve "enthusiasm and energy in art or writing", narrowed to artistic enthusiasm and energetic talent, especially in writing.