dope
UK[dəʊp]US[doʊp]
n
a thick liquid or a sticky substance used for a particular purpose, such as a varnish or a lubricant.
n
a drug taken illegally for pleasure, especially cannabis or heroin.
n
information, especially about a new product or a future event, that is not generally known.
v
to give a drug to a person or an animal, especially in order to affect their performance in a race or competition.
Etymology
the word 'dope' entered english in the early 19th century from the dutch word 'doop', meaning 'a dipping' or 'sauce'. this dutch term is related to the verb 'doopen', 'to dip'. the semantic journey from a liquid sauce to its modern meanings is a fascinating example of semantic broadening and pejoration. initially referring to any thick liquid or preparation, such as varnish, it was applied in the late 19th century to the thick opium paste used for smoking. this association with narcotics led to its general use for illegal drugs. the slang meanings of 'information' and 'a foolish person' developed in the early 20th century, likely from the concept of being 'doped up' or stupefied, affecting one's mental state and knowledge.
Analysis
the word 'dope' is considered a simplex form. it is a loanword from dutch, where 'doop' meant 'sauce' or 'dipping'. its functional role is as a complete lexical unit.
Examples
he used a special dope to waterproof the fabric of the tent.
the athlete was banned for two years after testing positive for dope.
what's the latest dope on the company's merger plans?