Definition of mend

The origin of the word "mend" can be traced back to Old English, specifically the word "mannian," which meant "to make good." However, over time, this word evolved and simplified into the Middle English word "menden," which ultimately led to the modern English word "mend." The Old English "mannian" is believed to be derived from the Germanic word "mann-," which meaning is uncertain, but likely relates to the idea of making something whole or complete. The Old English word was in turn related to the Latin word "manus," which meant "hand," and perhaps conveyed the idea of using your hands to fix or repair something. The Middle English word "menden" retained the basic meaning of "fixing" or "repairing," but also more specifically referred to mending clothes or fabrics. This use of "menden" is still evident in modern English, as most people associate the word "mend" primarily with the act of repairing torn or broken items. Overall, the history of the word "mend" highlights the importance of fixing and repairing items, particularly in relation to clothing and textiles, which likely reflects the practical concerns of everyday life in the Middle Ages, when mending clothes was a common household activity.