Definition of thus

The word "thus" has a long and fascinating history. It originates from Old English, specifically from the word "þus" (pronounced as "thus"), which was derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*þusiz". This Proto-Germanic word was further derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "*tu-", which meant "to set" or "to place". In Old English, "þus" was used as an adverb to indicate the result or consequence of an action, similar to how we use it today. For example: "He spoke thus" or "They did thus". During the Middle English period (circa 11th-15th centuries), the spelling of "thus" became standardized as "thus", and its meaning expanded to include introducing a quotation or reporting a speech. Throughout its evolution, "thus" has remained a versatile word, used to connect ideas, indicate emphasis, and provide clarity in written and spoken language.