Hello and Happy National Space Day! |
Today's word: Fortnight |
Where does the word fortnight come from, and why does it refer to such a specific timeframe? |
Fourteen Nights, Not Just Fourteen Days: |
The term "fortnight" has a rich history, dating back to Old English. Forget weeks or bi-weekly cycles – "fortnight" literally translates to "fourteen nights". This reflects the way time was often reckoned in the past, with nights holding as much significance as days. |
A Global Term (With Some Exceptions): |
While "fortnight" is commonly understood in many English-speaking countries, it's not universally used. In some places, like the United States, "two weeks" is the preferred term. However, "fortnight" still holds a certain charm and precision, a reminder of our linguistic heritage. |
I hope you have a fantastic weekend! |
