Greek papyrus (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

“Peruse” is an interesting word, according to Merriam-Webster it has an original meaning (15^th century): to examine or consider with attention and in detail : study.  That makes sense given its derivative from Middle English in which “per” meant completely.  But “peruse” acquired a different meaning over time:  to look over or through in a casual or cursory manner.  Etymology studies only indicate the shift in meaning in the 20^th century (some argue for 19^th century) – not the reasons why.  If I had to offer an uninformed guess, it would be because the word sounds “casual” and so people, not realizing the actual meaning, began to use “peruse” in a different, almost opposite way from its original meaning. Words can be like that. Continue reading →