The word ‘miracle’ comes from ‘smile’

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Yes, the word “miracle” shares a deep Indo-European root with the word “smile,” leading to the etymological idea that a miracle is something that causes us to smile in wonder.  Online Etymology Dictionary +1

Here is the breakdown of the etymological connection:

  • Proto-Indo-European (PIE) Root: Both “smile” and “miracle” can be traced back to the PIE root *smei- or *(s)meyh₂-, which means “to smile, laugh, or be astonished”.
  • Latin Evolution: The root developed into the Latin word mirus (“wonderful”) and mirari (“to wonder at”).
  • Miracle: From mirari came miraculum (“object of wonder”), which evolved into the English word “miracle”.
  • Smile: The root developed through Germanic languages into the English word “smile”.  Online Etymology Dictionary +3

Therefore, historically and linguistically, a miracle is a “wonderful” event that causes one to smile with astonishment. FāVS News +1

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