student asking question

Just curious, does the word "awesome" originate from "awe?"

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

Yes, that's right! It does originate from the word "awe" and "some." It means to be filled with "awe." Although, the phrase "awesome" has become more casual than the meaning of "awe" - which is "wonder" or "respect". A lot of things are called "awesome" these days. Ex: Awesome haircut! It really suits you. Ex: The cathedral left me in awe and wonder. It was beautiful!

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