close
UK[kləʊz]US[kloʊz]
v
to move something so that it covers an opening; to shut
v
to bring an event, period, or activity to an end
adj
near in space, time, or relationship
adj
very careful and thorough
adj
not willing to give personal information; reserved
Etymology
the word 'close' has a direct lineage from latin, entering english via old french. the latin verb 'claudere' meant to shut, block, or conclude, concepts that are directly preserved in the modern english verb meanings of shutting something and ending an event. the adjective sense of 'near' developed in old french and middle english, likely from the idea of being shut in together or confined to a small space, which logically extends to proximity. this dual evolution from a single root gives 'close' its core but distinct meanings related to both finality and nearness.
Analysis
the word is a simplex form. it originates from the old french 'clos', meaning 'closed, confined', which came from the latin past participle 'clausus' of the verb 'claudere', meaning 'to shut, close, block'.
Examples
please close the door quietly when you leave.
the chairman will close the conference with a final remark.
my apartment is very close to the subway station.