Langimage
English

duty

|du/ty|

B1

🇺🇸

/ˈduːti/

🇬🇧

/ˈdjuːti/

responsibility

Etymology
Etymology Information

'duty' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'deu,' where 'devoir' meant 'to owe.'

Historical Evolution

'deu' transformed into the Middle English word 'duete,' and eventually became the modern English word 'duty.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'what is owed,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'obligation or responsibility.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a moral or legal obligation; a responsibility.

It is your duty to report any suspicious activity.

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Noun 2

a task or action that someone is required to perform as part of a job.

Her duties include filing and answering the phone.

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Noun 3

a tax or payment imposed by the government, especially on imports.

The duty on imported cars is quite high.

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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35