detach
UK[dɪˈtætʃ]US[dɪˈtætʃ]
v
To separate something from something else that it is attached to.
v
To send (a soldier or group of soldiers) away from the main group for a special duty or assignment.
v
To make someone feel less involved in or less concerned about a situation.
Morpheme Breakdown
de
tach
de
remove
tach
attach
Etymology
The word "detach" entered English in the late 16th century from the French détacher, itself formed from the prefix dé- (expressing reversal) and the verb attacher (to attach). The core morpheme "tach" originates from a Germanic root related to a "stake" or "post," the idea being to fasten something to a fixed point. Therefore, the literal logic of the word is "to unfasten" or "to remove from being attached." Over time, its meaning expanded from the physical act of separation to include abstract and military senses, such as emotional distance or the assignment of troops away from a main force.
Analysis
Structure: de (remove) + tach (attach)
- de: A Latin prefix meaning "off, away, down, completely," or indicating reversal. In this word, it signifies removal or separation.
- tach: A morpheme derived from the Old French verb tachier or estachier, meaning "to attach" or "to fasten," which is of Germanic origin (related to stake).
Examples
Please detach the coupon and mail it to the address below.
A small unit was detached from the regiment to guard the bridge.
She had a remarkable ability to detach herself from the emotional drama of the office.