When you say 'amen' are you speaking Hebrew?

'Amen' is a word borrowed from Hebrew 'amen'. The word entered the English language some time before the 12th century.

amen [interjection] [before 12th century]

Used to express solemn ratification (as of an expression of faith) or hearty approval (as of an assertion)
Etymology: Middle English, from Old English, from Late Latin, from Greek 'amēn' from Hebrew 'āmēn'.

Topics: Linguistics, Religion:Faith.

Origin: From Hebrew to English.

note: Linguistic Path: Hebrew (אָמֵן / āmēn) → Ancient Greek (ἀμήν) → Late Latin (amen) → Old English.Meaning & History: The word derives from the Semitic root a-m-n which means to be trustworthy - confirm support or believe. When used as an exclamation at the end of prayers or blessings it functions adverbially to mean so be it truly or certainly.

See 'amen' on the Loan Words Map

See more loan words from Hebrew.

See more loan words from before 1200.