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hie

UK[haɪ]US[haɪ]
v

To go quickly; to hasten.

Etymology

The word 'hie' originates from the Old English verb 'hīgian', which meant 'to strive, aim, or hasten'. This term is of Germanic descent, related to the Old High German 'hīgēn' (to care for, be anxious) and the Old Norse 'hīggja' (to think, consider), suggesting a conceptual link between mental effort and physical urgency. Over time, its meaning narrowed and specialized, shedding the connotations of thought and anxiety to focus purely on the act of moving with speed. While now considered archaic or literary, 'hie' preserves the direct, action-oriented character of its ancient root, encapsulating the simple command to hurry.

Analysis

This is a simplex word of Germanic origin. It is derived from the Middle English 'hien', 'hyen', from the Old English 'hīgian' meaning 'to strive, hasten'. The functional role is that of a verb.

Examples

"You must hie to the market before it closes."

"The messenger was told to hie himself to the king's court."

"We should hie away from this place with all due haste."

hie – Meaning, Etymology & Word Origin | OpenEtymology