score
UK[skɔː]US[skɔːr]
n
The number of points, goals, etc. achieved in a game or test.
n
A written or printed version of a piece of music showing all the vocal and instrumental parts.
v
To win or earn a point, goal, etc. in a game or sport.
v
To achieve a particular number or result on a test.
Etymology
The word 'score' entered English from Old Norse 'skor', meaning a notch, tally, or twenty. This Norse term is related to Old English 'scoru' (a score, twenty) and both stem from the Proto-Germanic root 'skurō-', meaning an incision or cut. The original sense was a notch cut on a tally stick to count a group of twenty items, such as sheep or years. Over time, the meaning broadened from the physical notch to the count itself, then to a record of points in a game, and finally to the act of gaining such points, while also developing a specialized meaning in music for a written record of all the parts.
Analysis
The modern English word 'score' is a simplex form derived from a single, indivisible Old Norse root.
Examples
The final score was 3-2.
He studied the orchestral score before the concert.
She scored the winning goal in the last minute.