dash
UK[dæʃ]US[dæʃ]
v
to go or run somewhere very quickly
v
to throw or hit something with great force, often so that it breaks
n
a small amount of a liquid or substance that is added to something
n
a horizontal line (—) used in writing
n
a short, fast race
Etymology
the word 'dash' entered middle english from old norse, with a core sense of striking or hitting violently. this is evident in its early uses, such as dashing something to pieces. the connection to rapid movement, as in running quickly, developed from the idea of a sudden, forceful action. the typographical meaning of the horizontal line likely derives from the notion of a quick stroke of the pen. thus, the word's evolution from a physical act of striking to encompass concepts of speed, small quantities, and punctuation marks illustrates a broadening of its semantic field while retaining the essence of sudden, energetic action.
Analysis
the word is a simplex form. it is likely of scandinavian origin, related to danish 'daske' meaning to slap or strike, and middle swedish 'daska' meaning to beat or strike. its functional role is as a complete lexical root.
Examples
she had to dash to catch the last train.
he dashed the plate against the wall in a fit of anger.
add a dash of salt to enhance the flavor.