Chapter 7: Ancient Roots
Many English words are obviously constructed from Latin and Greek affixes and so-called roots. Often it is possible to translate such words using Olin alone without ever taking into consideration the meanings of the discrete roots and affixes from which the words were constructed. In fact, of all the Olin translations, translations reflecting a holistic approach such as just described often appear to be some of the most compelling.
Yet in many other cases it simply is impossible to ignore the affixes and their associated roots. In such cases, knowledge of the meaning of the affixes and roots is essential in order to yield an effective translation. And in such cases, one can clearly begin to recognize that traditional approaches are not entirely without merit and that Olin, devoid of such knowledge, would certainly be deficient.
The papers included in this chapter focus on some of the various Latin and Greek roots and affixes and their associated meanings. As in the previous chapters, the papers contained herein reflect an almost alchemical blending of ancient history, traditional etymology and Olin translations that ultimately yields intriguing new insights--insights that at times challenge and at other times reinforce the orthodox views.
Table of Contents
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After crashing through ancient barriers, I came to discover that the Tree of Knowledge still yields much fruit. |
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Some food for thought concerning the word abdomen. |
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A second look at the meaning of the re- prefix. |
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A little food for thought involving familiar characters straight out of ancient Greek mythology. |
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After reviewing the etymology of the word democracy, I vote for a revision. |
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It is claimed that John Milton coined the word pandemonium in his epic poem Paradise Lost. Closer examination of that claim suggests that there may be more to the story than first meets the eye. |

