share
UK[ʃeə(r)]US[ʃer]
v
to have, use, or experience something at the same time as someone else
v
to divide something between two or more people
n
a part of something that has been divided between several people
n
one of the equal parts into which the ownership of a company is divided
Etymology
the modern english word 'share' derives from the old english noun 'scearu,' meaning 'a cutting, tonsure, or division,' and its related verb 'scearian,' 'to cut or shear.' these old english terms originate from the proto-germanic root sker-, which carried the core meaning 'to cut.' this etymological journey reveals the word's intrinsic logic: the concept of a 'share' is fundamentally linked to the act of cutting or dividing a whole into portions. over time, the meaning expanded from the physical act of cutting to the abstract notion of apportioning or partaking in something, whether tangible or intangible. the semantic connection between dividing and possessing a part remains clear in its contemporary financial and social uses.
Analysis
the word 'share' is a simplex word of old english origin. it functions as a single, indivisible lexical unit.
Examples
we don't have enough books, so you'll have to share.
he insisted on paying his share of the bill.
she bought 100 shares in the telecommunications company.