Computer gebruiken

The Dutch phrase 'Computer gebruiken' directly translates to 'to use computer'. Let's break down the etymology of each word. **Computer:** This word has its roots in Latin. The verb 'computare' means 'to count, to sum up, to reckon together'. It's formed from 'com-' (together) and 'putare' (to reckon, to think, to prune). In the 17th century, 'computer' in English referred to a person who performed calculations. The mechanical devices that aided in calculation were also called 'computers'. With the advent of electronic digital machines in the mid-20th century, the term 'computer' was adopted to describe these complex machines capable of performing a wide range of logical and arithmetic operations. From English, the word 'computer' was borrowed into many languages, including Dutch. **Gebruiken:** This Dutch verb means 'to use', 'to employ', 'to utilize'. Its etymology can be traced back to older Germanic languages. It is related to the Old High German 'gebruhhun', Old Saxon 'gebrūcan', and Old English 'gebrucan'. All these words shared the meaning of 'to use' or 'to enjoy'. The prefix 'ge-' in Old Germanic languages often indicated completion or association. The core of the word, related to 'bruken', meant 'to break' or 'to enjoy/profit from'. Over time, the sense of 'to enjoy' evolved into 'to make use of' or 'to employ for a purpose'. Therefore, 'gebruiken' signifies the act of putting something into service or operation.