Omit

Part of speech: verb

Pronunciation: /əʊˈmɪt/

Definitions

  1. To intentionally leave out or exclude something | To fail to include or mention something when making a selection | To neglect to do something or to overlook an item in a list
  2. To intentionally skip or leave something aside | To fail to mention or incorporate an aspect in a given context | To disregard an item or not fulfill a certain action
  3. To deliberately not include or mention something in a discourse | To intentionally fail to recognize or take into account a particular element | To choose to exclude certain information or actions from consideration or a list

Etymology: The term "omit" traces its origins back to the Latin word "omittere," which is composed of the prefix "ob-" meaning "away" and "mittere," meaning "to send." This suggests a sense of sending something away or letting it go. The word found its way into English during the late Middle English period, around the 14th century, through Old French "omettre." Initially, it carried the implication of neglecting to include something or allowing it to be left out, perfectly encapsulating the idea of an item being sent away from consideration. As it entered the English lexicon, "omit" maintained its core meaning of leaving something out or excluding it from a list or consideration. Its usage became solidified in various contexts, from writing to conversation, where the act of omitting can range from a simple oversight to a deliberate choice. The evolution of the term reflects how exclusion has always been a part of communication, whether in the written word or verbal exchanges. The semantic journey of "omit" illustrates a broader linguistic trend where words related to exclusion and absence often derive from roots implying sending away. This creates a fascinating link to other English words such as "dismiss," which also conveys the idea of sending something away, albeit in a more forceful context. Understanding this connection enriches the appreciation of the term and its nuances in English usage.

Synonyms: exclude, leave out, neglect

Antonyms: include, add