Explain the word "born". The word "born" has a few key meanings, primarily revolving around the idea of coming into existence.

The word "born" has a few key meanings, primarily revolving around the idea of coming into existence.

Here's a breakdown:

1. Coming into the world (of living beings): This is the most common and literal meaning.

   • When a baby or animal is "born," it means it has come out of its mother's body and begun life as an independent being.
   • Example: "She was born in 1990." or "The kittens were born yesterday."

2. Origin or beginning (of ideas, things, or concepts): "Born" can also be used metaphorically to describe the creation or emergence of something non-living.

   • Example: "The idea for the novel was born during his travels."
   • Example: "A new political movement was born from the protests."

3. Possessing qualities from birth; innate: It can describe someone who has a natural talent or characteristic from the moment they are born.

   • Example: "She's a born leader." (Meaning she has natural leadership qualities)
   • Example: "He was born with a musical talent."

Grammar Note:

"Born" is the past participle of the verb "to bear" (in the sense of "to carry" or "to give birth to"). However, in modern English, "to be born" functions very much like an independent verb.

It's important to distinguish "born" from "borne":

• Born: Almost exclusively used for the act of birth (coming into existence) or for innate qualities.
• Borne: Used for other senses of "to bear," such as "to carry," "to support," or "to endure."
  • Example: "The heavy load was borne by two strong men."
  • Example: "She has borne a lot of responsibility."

In summary, "born" signifies the beginning of life or the emergence of something new, often with the implication of inherent characteristics.