3 ms·
What is the origin of the word ‘quiz’?
- hyper_reality 8y agoThe article doesn't go into much detail nor even explore all the possible etymologies. My copy of the Oxford English Dictionary suggests that the meaning of 'quiz' may be associated with the word 'inquisitive'. Another theory is that 'quiz' derived from Latin "qui es?" meaning "who are you", the first question in oral exams in Latin in old grammar schools (https://www.etymonline.com/word/quiz https://www.etymonline.com/word/quiz) It's quite interesting how many equally plausible theories can be made to explain certain words.
- abritinthebay 8y agoGive. The context & usage “inquisitive” or “inquisition” as roots seem the most plausible. Though inquest and inquire seem to be related - especially in the latter case meaning “to question”. Possibly it’s a slang corruption of all of them too. Language is strange.
- monistowl 8y agoI always figured it was a corruption of 'cuius'