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Origin and history of etude

etude(n.)

a composition having musical value but primarily intended to exercise the pupil in technical difficulties, 1837, from French étude, literally "study" (12c., Old French estudie), from Latin studium (see study (n.)). Popularized in English by the etudes of Chopin (1810-1849).

Entries linking to etude

c. 1300, studie, "pursuit of learning, application of the mind to the acquisition of knowledge, intensive reading and protracted contemplation of a book, writings, etc.," from Old French estudie "care, attention, skill, thought; study, school" (Modern French étude), from Latin studium "study, application" (see study (v.)).

Also from c. 1300 as "a state of deep thought or contemplation; a state of mental perplexity, doubt, anxiety; state of amazement or wonder." It is attested from mid-14c. as "careful examination, scrutiny."

The meaning "a subject of study" is from late 15c. In Middle English also in now-obsolete sense of "eagerness, earnestness, zeal; diligent effort" of any sort (late 14c.) on the notion of "studied purpose."

The sense of "room furnished with books, room in a house for private reading and writing" is from late 14c. Study hall is attested from 1891, originally a large common room in a college. Study group is by 1926.

The meaning "artistic production done as an exercise in learning," especially a careful sketch, is by 1769. In theater, "the action of committing to memory," by 1590s, hence "one who learns lines and directions" in a stated manner (fast, slow).

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