What is the purpose of etymology?

The purpose of etymology is to study and understand the origins, development, and historical connections of words and their meanings. It provides insights into the history, culture, and evolution of languages. Etymology involves tracing words back to their earliest known forms, examining their linguistic and semantic changes over time, and identifying the influences and borrowings from other languages. By understanding the etymology of words, we gain a deeper understanding of how languages have evolved and how different cultures and civilizations have interacted throughout history. Etymology also helps in deciphering the meanings and connotations of words in different contexts and can aid language learners in building their vocabulary.