Word of the Day: Mother
Mother, or some variation of mother, is one of the first words many people learn. In honor of Mother’s Day let’s explore the meaning and history of the word mother.
mother (noun):
a woman in relation to her child or children
a woman in authority; specifically: the superior of a religious community of women
source, origin
maternal tenderness or affection
something that is an extreme or ultimate example of it’s kind, especially in scale
mother (verb):
to give birth to
to give rise to, produce
to care for or protect like a mother
Mother comes from Middle English word moder, from Old English modor, Proto-Germanic *mōdēr, and the PIE root *mater-. All of these words mean “mother.” According to etymonline, mother is believed to be a combination of the sound ma-, which is a natural sound babies make, and the suffix -ter which indicates kinship.
I love that the word mother is believed to originate from baby talk. Without knowledge of language, we still produce sound and engage in communication. Ma is an innate and natural sound. In traditions of sound healing and mantra chanting, the Ah vowel sound is often associated with the heart. Not only is Ma a sound that naturally comes from the mouths of babes, but it is also a heart centered sound.
There are many phrases that illustrate that the word mother is synonymous with origin or source. Some favorites of mine include Divine Mother and Mother Nature. “Mother Earth” and “Mother Nature” have been in use since the late 16th century. These phrases remind us that the Earth is a giver of life.
The word mother is also used to point out something that is inherent or native. Examples of this include “mother tongue” and “mother country.” We would not exist without a mother as the natural source of life.
I am also reminded through etymology that there are many ways to mother. Whether or not we can or choose to have biological children, we can still demonstrate maternal affection, care, and protection. We can also still give rise to ideas, creative projects, and inventions.
Today I express gratitude for mothers in all forms. Biological mothers, sisters, caregivers, creators, protectors, and life givers. I see you and I am thankful for you.
