Definition of double as

The word "double as" is a phrasal verb that is commonly used to describe an object or a person's ability to serve two functions simultaneously. The origin of this expression can be traced back to the 16th century when the words "double" and "as" were used separately in the English language, each with their own meaning. The word "double" originated in Middle English, around the 13th century, and originally meant "twofold" or "twice as much." Over time, the meaning of the word evolved to include the idea of having two versions or parts of something. The word "as" has been a part of the English language for centuries, and originally meant "like" or "similar to." In the context of "double as," the use of "as" implies comparison, as the item or person being described is serving two functions that are similar in nature. The combination of these two words, "double as," began to appear in written English during the 16th century, as documented in the English language historical thoroughbred, the Oxford English Dictionary (OED). The use of "double as" to describe an object's multi-functional capability became popular during this time and has since become a common expression in both written and spoken English. Overall, the phrase "double as" is a reflection of the modern-day emphasis on multitasking and efficiency, as well as a testament to the rich history and evolution of the English language.