Definition of eastern

The word "eastern" originates from the Old English words "east" and "ern". "East" comes from the Proto-Germanic word "*ausiz", which is also the source of the modern English word "east". This Proto-Germanic word is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "*aus-", which meant "to shine" or "to rise", likely referring to the sun rising in the east. The suffix "-ern" is a common way to form adjectives in Old English, meaning "pertaining to" or "belonging to". So, when combined, "east" and "-ern" formed the word "eastern", meaning "belonging to the east" or "relating to the east". Over time, the meaning of "eastern" expanded to include not only geographical locations but also cultures, languages, and customs associated with the eastern parts of the world. Today, the word "eastern" is used in various contexts to describe anything connected to or originating from the eastern hemisphere.