Definition of enlist

The word "enlist" has its roots in the 15th century. It originates from the Old English words "in" meaning "into" and "list" meaning "company" or "fold". In its original sense, "enlist" meant "to take into an army or military company". Over time, the meaning of the word expanded to include the idea of joining or signing up for a particular cause or organization. In the 17th century, the word took on a new meaning, referring to the act of signing up for military service. This sense of the word became more widely used during the American Civil War and World War I, where soldiers would enlist in the military to fight in battles. Today, the word "enlist" is still used to describe the act of joining or signing up for a particular cause, organization, or service, not just limited to military service.