composition

The story

1. Latin · derived fromcompositiō, compositiōnem
2. Old French · derived fromcomposicion
3. Middle English · inherited fromcomposicioun
4. English todaycomposition

From Middle English composicioun, borrowed from Old French composicion, from Latin compositiō, compositiōnem.

First known use, by meaning

• from 16th c. A mixture or compound; the result of composing.
• from 14th c. The proportion of different parts to make a whole.
• from 14th c. The general makeup of a thing or person.
• 14th–19th c. An agreement or treaty used to settle differences; later especially, an agreement to stop hostilities; a truce.
• 16th–19th c. A payment of money in order to clear a liability or obligation; a settling or fine.
• 16th–19th c. A payment of fine in order to settle a (usually minor) criminal charge.
• from 16th c. An essay.
• from 16th c. The formation of compound words from separate words.