student asking question

Do you call autumn a "fall" because leaves fall?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

The term "fall" is believed to come from an Old English word which meant "to fall from a height." So yes, this name for the season was inspired by trees' falling leaves. However note that Britain and much of the UK ended up using "autumn" as their primary term for the season. While you'll still hear the word "fall" more commonly used in America. If you were to say either in either country you would be understood, so it is not something to worry about. Ex: I love fall because I like to see the leaves change colour. = I love autumn because I like to see the leaves change colour.

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