rid
UK[rɪd]US[rɪd]
v
To free someone or something from an unwanted or unpleasant thing or person
Etymology
The verb "rid" entered Middle English from Old Norse "ryðja," meaning "to clear (land), to empty." Its ultimate origin is Proto-Germanic rudjaną, which carries the sense of "clearing away." The core semantic thread from its ancient roots to its modern usage is the concept of removal and liberation. Over time, its application narrowed from the physical clearing of objects or land to the more abstract act of freeing someone from a burden, nuisance, or problem. The logic of the word has consistently been one of creating a state of freedom through the act of removal.
Analysis
This is a simplex word of Old Norse origin. The entire word functions as a verb root meaning "to clear" or "to free."
Examples
He finally managed to rid the garden of weeds.
She wanted to rid herself of all feelings of guilt.
The new policy aims to rid the city of this persistent problem.