Definition of subscribe

The word "subscribe" has a fascinating history. It comes from the Latin words "sub" meaning "under" and "scribere" meaning "to write". In the 14th century, the word "subscribe" was first used to mean "to write one's name under" or "to sign one's name in token of assent or acknowledgement". This referred to the act of signing one's name at the end of a document, usually to indicate agreement or acceptance. Over time, the term evolved to encompass the idea of committing to a regular payment or service. In the 17th century, the word "subscribe" began to be used in the context of newspapers, where readers would "subscribe" to a publication by agreeing to pay a regular fee for future issues. Today, the word "subscribe" has expanded to encompass a wide range of digital services, including online content, software, and even email newsletters.