Lean:
Old English definition of lean
was “thin, spare, with little flesh or fat”, whereas nowadays lean can mean a
cut of meat (lean meat) or it could mean someone who has a good body structure (tall,
lean and handsome).
This means the word has broadened
its meaning over the years.
Novice:
In the mid- 14 century the word novice meant a “probationer
in a religious order,” In the modern day it simply means someone who is new to
somewhere of something. The old French translation was “beginner” so I believe
that the word as broadened its meaning because it’s an openly used word for all
people who are new to something.
Revolutionary:
The word revolutionary is a noun from the word revolutionist
this word is American. In the UK it means pretty much the same thing but it has
taken on a more positive meaning, this is called Amelioration.
Lewd:
In old English the word Lewd meant “nonclerical” which is
derived from the Vulgar Latin. In the modern day Lewd means something is crude
or offensive in a sexual way.
I believe this word has now got a much more of a narrow
meaning but also it has a much more of a negative meaning.
