trust
trust
UK[trʌst]US[trʌst]
n
Firm belief in the reliability, truth, ability, or strength of someone or something
n
An arrangement whereby a person (a trustee) holds property as its nominal owner for the good of one or more beneficiaries
v
Believe in the reliability, truth, ability, or strength of
v
Allow someone to have, use, or look after (someone or something of importance or value) with confidence
Etymology
The word 'trust' originates from the Old Norse 'traust', meaning help, confidence, or protection. This term is related to the Old English 'trēowe', which means faithful or trustworthy, both stemming from the Proto-Germanic 'traustą' (solidity, firmness). The conceptual link is clear: from the concrete idea of something firm and solid, the meaning evolved into the abstract concept of firm belief and reliability in a person or thing. This semantic journey from physical firmness to psychological and social certainty illustrates a common pattern in language development.
Analysis
The word 'trust' is a simplex word of Germanic origin. It cannot be meaningfully segmented into distinct morphemes within modern English spelling. Its core meaning is carried by the entire root.
Examples
A good relationship is built on mutual trust.
The money is held in a trust for the children's education.
I trust you to complete this task on time.