Definition of offend

The word "offend" has its roots in Old English. In the 13th century, the verb "offenden" meant "to make somebody unwilling or resentful." This sense of unwillingness or resentment came from the Old English words "ōf" meaning "against" and "fend" meaning "thin" or "weak." Initially, the word referred to making someone feel weak or powerless, rather than literally causing physical harm. Over time, the meaning of "offend" expanded to include causing moral or emotional harm, such as offense to one's feelings or values. By the 16th century, the word had taken on its modern connotation, encompassing not only emotional harm but also social and cultural sensibilities. Today, "offend" is still used to describe actions or statements that cause distress, annoyance, or objection to others.