Definition of pick out

The word "pick out" originated in Middle English around the 14th century. It comes from the Old Norse word "pík(k)urtha," which literally translates to "piker" or "one who picks." The word "pík(k)urtha" was adopted by Old English, which used it to signify someone who selects or chooses items, such as the best from a group. The use of "pick out" to describe this process of choosing the best or most valuable items first evolved over time, particularly during the Middle English period. The phrase "to picken out" or "to pick outen" was commonly used in this context, with the meaning of "to select" or "to choose" becoming more prominent. By the 16th century, "pick out" was established as a phrasal verb meaning "to choose or select" in English, and its usage has persisted to the present day. Some synonyms of "pick out" that have evolved include "select," "choose," and "single out." The phrase "pick through" is a related term indicating the act of sifting through items to find the best or most valuable ones. Despite its origins, the meaning and usage of "pick out" have remained consistent over time, demonstrating the word's enduring usefulness in the English language.