concord
Meaning
A state of peace and agreement; harmony.
A formal treaty or agreement, especially one between nations.
Structure
Usage
The two neighboring nations lived in concord for decades.
The treaty was a rare moment of concord between the rival factions.
A spirit of concord is essential for a successful team.
Etymology
The word 'concord' originates from the Latin 'concordia', which itself is built from the prefix 'con-' (together) and 'cor' (heart). This literal meaning of "hearts together" vividly expressed a state of union, harmony, and mutual understanding. It entered Middle English via Old French, retaining its core sense of agreement and amity. The semantic evolution from the physical organ to the seat of emotions and will in classical thought provides the logical bridge to its modern abstract meanings of formal treaty and peaceful accord.
Analysis
The prefix 'con-' is from Latin, meaning 'together, with'. The root 'cord' is from Latin 'cor, cordis', meaning 'heart'. Its functional role is to form nouns indicating a state or condition.