Definition of exile

The word "exile" has its roots in ancient Greek. The term "exil" (ἔξῠλος, exilos) originated in the 5th century BC and referred to a person who was forced to leave their homeland or parents. This concept was closely tied to the idea of being "_presence_ and _absence_" (parousia and apousia), which meant being physically absent from a place while remaining mentally or emotionally present. In Latin, the word "exilium" (jmică) emerged in the 1st century AD, adopting the Greek concept and expanding its meaning to include involuntary or voluntary departure from one's native land. Over time, the word "exile" evolved to encompass a broader range of meanings, including forced migration, displacement, and political persecution. Today, the term "exile" has become a powerful symbol of loss, displacement, and the human struggle for belonging.