Definition of collective

The word "collective" has its roots in Latin. The Latin word "collegere" means "to gather" or "to bring together". This Latin word is a combination of "colligere", which means "to gather" and "legere", which means "to read" or "to gather". The English word "collective" emerged in the 15th century, derived from the Old French "collectif", which is itself derived from the Latin "collegere". Initially, the word referred to a group or assembly of people who came together to perform a specific task or function. Over time, the meaning of the word expanded to include any group or entity that acts or functions together for a common purpose, whether it be a group of people, animals, or even concepts. Today, the word "collective" is widely used in various contexts, including sociology, psychology, politics, and culture, to describe groups or entities that operate or exist together.